Rates notices sent to 56,000 property owners


Greater Bendigo’s 55,962 ratepayers are reminded not to expect a uniform six per cent rate rise when they receive their rates notices in coming days.

A revaluation of properties undertaken on January 1, 2014 means some ratepayers will pay more than six per cent, while others could pay less.

Director of Organisation Support Marg Allan said this is because the rates people pay is determined by the value of their property.

To calculate your rates, the Council first determines how much rate revenue it needs to fund services and infrastructure for the Greater Bendigo community.

In 2014/2015, the Council has determined that it needs to collect six per cent more in rate revenue than in 2013/2014, but this does not mean that individual ratepayers will pay a uniform six per cent increase.

“Every two years Council is required under State Government legislation to revalue every rateable property in Greater Bendigo and this year is a revaluation year,” Ms Allan said.

“Many properties will have increased in value since the last revaluation in 2012 and some properties may have decreased, so the rate level will not be a uniform six per cent increase across the municipality.”

She said some significant rate rises would occur in areas including Golden Square with many properties there having increased in value, as well as being undervalued for some time.

“The methods we use to value properties are continually being refined and improved. These new methods help to achieve more accurate valuations,” Ms Allan said.

“As a result, the rates being charged more accurately reflect the true value of properties in that area, which is a fairer outcome for all ratepayers in Greater Bendigo.”

Ms Allan said anyone with concerns about their rates or valuations is encouraged to read an information brochure accompanying their rates notices and if still concerned to contact the City on 5434 6000.

She said $93.38M will be raised from rates and charges in 2014/2015 and $10.15M from the Fire Services Levy (FSL).

“Funds from rates and charges will go towards providing services and infrastructure for the Greater Bendigo community, while the FSL is collected on behalf of the State Government to be used for the Country Fire Authority and Metropolitan Fire Brigade,” Ms Allan said.

People who pay their rates in full by September 30, 2014 will receive a 1.5 per cent discount.

Those who opt to pay in instalments are reminded that the first instalment is due on September 30, the second on December 1, the third on March 2, 2015 and the fourth on June 1, 2015.

People who think they will have difficulty paying their rates on time are encouraged to contact the City as soon as possible to discuss their circumstances. Paying rates cannot be avoided however the City does work with people having financial difficulty to set up suitable payment options.  

Ms Allan encouraged ratepayers to receive their rate notices electronically rather than by post.

For further details on how to receive rates electronically and other information on rates please visit www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/rates

For more information visit City of Greater Bendigo