Federation Council has commenced a 28-day public exhibition period for its rating structure options for the 2025/26 financial year. Residents, businesses and farmers are encouraged to review the discussion paper and provide their feedback on how Council collects rates across all property owners.
Council has received approval from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for a maximum 19% increase to its total rate income for 2025/26. This increase is necessary to help fund essential local services and maintain and renew essential infrastructure.
Federation Council Mayor, Cr Cheryl Cook said the discussion paper outlines four distinct options for how this increase could be applied to the base rate and ad valorem rates, each with different impacts on ratepayers.
"Understanding our rating structure is crucial for every property owner in the Federation Council area," Mayor Cook said.
"This discussion paper is a vital tool to help our community understand the principles of rating and the factors Council considers when setting rates. We've also provided an easy-to-use online rate estimator so individuals can see how the proposed options might affect their specific property."
The proposed ordinary rate revenue for the 2025/26 financial year is $15.4 million, representing a 19% increase on the 2024/25 ordinary rates revenue. The Local Government Act 1993 governs the rating structure, allowing councils to levy rates to fund local services and infrastructure. Federation Council currently uses a combination of a base amount (a fixed charge) and an ad valorem amount (based on land value determined by the Valuer General) for general rates.
The four options presented in the discussion paper adjust the balance between the base rate and the ad valorem rate, allowing Council to respond to current cost of living challenges and support vulnerable ratepayers.
"We strongly encourage all ratepayers to visit our website, read the discussion paper, use the rate estimator, and submit their feedback," Mayor Cook said.
"Your insights are invaluable in ensuring we adopt a rating structure that is balanced and sustainable for our entire community."
