Proposed Special Rate Variation

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To work towards fixing our assets, it is proposed that we increase our rates above the Rate Peg (3.8%) in 2025-26.

In addition to the rate peg increase of 3.8%, two other options are being proposed for community feedback and then Council’s consideration for an IPART application.

These options are:

  • 8% includes Rate Peg (3.8%). Would provide $2.2 million in savings (unrestricted cash) by 30 June 2026 and $10.7 million for infrastructure renewal next financial year 2025-26. Continued efficiencies with possible decrease to some services to achieve $10 million efficiency target. Average residential rates increase of $2.30 per week in 2025-26.
  • 12% includes Rate Peg (3.8%). Would provide $4 million in savings (unrestricted cash) as at end 30 June 2026 and $12.7 million for infrastructure renewal next financial year 2025-26. Continued efficiencies with possible decrease to some services to achieve $10 million efficiency target. Average residential rates increase of $3.46 per week.
The 3.8% Rate Peg only (base case) would provide $2.2 million in savings (unrestricted cash) as at end 30 June 2026 and $6.79 million for infrastructure renewal next financial year 2025-26. Likely reduction in service to achieve $10 million efficiency target. Average residential rates increase of $1.10 per week.

Complete the survey to have your say about the proposed rate increase options.

See the full list of categories and options in the photo library on this page.



Updated Resourcing Strategy

The Resourcing Strategy outlines how Council will manage its finance, assets and people to achieve the community's vision and goals. The updated draft components of the strategy currently on exhibition are:

  • Workforce Management Planning Strategy – planning for the workforce needed to deliver services to our community
  • Asset Management Strategy – how we manage the assets (like buildings and infrastructure) that Council owns
  • Information Communication Technology Strategy – making sure Council’s systems and technologies provide exceptional customer service
  • Long Term Financial Plan 2025-2034 - outlines how Council aims to provide services and infrastructure over the long term while working towards financial sustainability for current and future generations

Council has made changes to our Resourcing Strategy based on the updated draft Long Term Financial Plan, the Financial Sustainability Program and the special rate variation options. These updates include addressing asset maturity in our workforce and ICT systems.

The Draft Resourcing Strategy is currently on exhibition, and you can provide feedback here.


To work towards fixing our assets, it is proposed that we increase our rates above the Rate Peg (3.8%) in 2025-26.

In addition to the rate peg increase of 3.8%, two other options are being proposed for community feedback and then Council’s consideration for an IPART application.

These options are:

  • 8% includes Rate Peg (3.8%). Would provide $2.2 million in savings (unrestricted cash) by 30 June 2026 and $10.7 million for infrastructure renewal next financial year 2025-26. Continued efficiencies with possible decrease to some services to achieve $10 million efficiency target. Average residential rates increase of $2.30 per week in 2025-26.
  • 12% includes Rate Peg (3.8%). Would provide $4 million in savings (unrestricted cash) as at end 30 June 2026 and $12.7 million for infrastructure renewal next financial year 2025-26. Continued efficiencies with possible decrease to some services to achieve $10 million efficiency target. Average residential rates increase of $3.46 per week.
The 3.8% Rate Peg only (base case) would provide $2.2 million in savings (unrestricted cash) as at end 30 June 2026 and $6.79 million for infrastructure renewal next financial year 2025-26. Likely reduction in service to achieve $10 million efficiency target. Average residential rates increase of $1.10 per week.

Complete the survey to have your say about the proposed rate increase options.

See the full list of categories and options in the photo library on this page.



Updated Resourcing Strategy

The Resourcing Strategy outlines how Council will manage its finance, assets and people to achieve the community's vision and goals. The updated draft components of the strategy currently on exhibition are:

  • Workforce Management Planning Strategy – planning for the workforce needed to deliver services to our community
  • Asset Management Strategy – how we manage the assets (like buildings and infrastructure) that Council owns
  • Information Communication Technology Strategy – making sure Council’s systems and technologies provide exceptional customer service
  • Long Term Financial Plan 2025-2034 - outlines how Council aims to provide services and infrastructure over the long term while working towards financial sustainability for current and future generations

Council has made changes to our Resourcing Strategy based on the updated draft Long Term Financial Plan, the Financial Sustainability Program and the special rate variation options. These updates include addressing asset maturity in our workforce and ICT systems.

The Draft Resourcing Strategy is currently on exhibition, and you can provide feedback here.


  • Proposed Rate Variation Approved

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    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.

Page last updated: 19 Dec 2024, 09:12 AM