Proposed Rate Variation Approved
At the Council meeting held on 17 December 2024 Council approved the submission of a request to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for a rate increase of 12% for landowners in the Shoalhaven. The application will be submitted in early February 2025 with a decision from the tribunal expected in April or May 2025.
Council conducted extensive engagement with the community regarding the Proposed Special Rate Variation throughout November including face to face meetings, community pop-up stalls and an online survey. Over 1,900 people responded to the survey.
Key findings from the consultation include:
- 98.3% are aware of the financial position of Council
- 41.4% agree that in addition to operational savings and productivity improvements, an increase in rates is necessary.
- Respondents could choose multiple investment options, with the top three being 62.9% for urban roads, 59% for rural roads, and 42.9% for stormwater drainage.
- There was concern about the affordability of a rate rise in the current cost of living crisis, particularly for residents on a fixed income, pensioners, and welfare recipients.
- The community felt that Council should be focussing very specifically on the provision of core services such as road maintenance, public works, and waste services.
- Community members provided many suggestions for alternative ways that Council could generate revenue and save money.
The full Community Engagement Report for the Proposed Special Rate Variation 2024 can be accessed here and can also be accessed from Documents tab on the right of the project page by clicking the "More.." button.
