Wollongong City Council is reminding residents the 2021 Local Government Elections have been moved from September to Saturday 4 December 2021.
The decision to postpone the election was announced late last month by Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock. The decision was made in response to the current COVID-19 situation facing many NSW residents.
Council is asking residents to be mindful of the election date move, particularly those who are receiving their rates notices this week by mail. The notice included a reminder from the NSW Electoral Commission about the September election. However, this was printed ahead of the NSW Government's date change announcement.
Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM also reminded residents receiving rates notices that support measures are in place should they be experiencing significant financial hardship as a result of COVID-19.
"While many will be in a position to pay their rates instalment at this time, we also know that this is a difficult time for others in our community,'' Cr Bradbery said.
"We have steps in place to support those who have been hit hard financially by the current lockdown and these include additional areas of support approved by Council this week.
"The support package builds on existing measures already in place and offers opportunities for assistance to residents and ratepayers, businesses, sporting organisations and creative industries across our city. It includes the opportunity to defer the payment of your first 21/22 rates instalment until 30 November 2021 without penalty. Anyone who is experiencing hardship beyond this date should discuss their circumstances with Council as additional assistance is available through our Debt Recovery and Hardship Assistance Policy.''
