What are rates?

Council rates are supplemented by Government grants and fees revenue to cover the cost of supporting the community at a local level.

Services provided under general rates include, but are not limited to:

  • Arts and cultural programs;
  • Cemeteries;
  • Community safety;
  • Community leadership and advocacies;
  • Economic development;
  • Environmental health, local laws, food safety inspections and the control of pets and plants;
  • Information services and online services;
  • Local roads, footpaths and cycle paths;
  • Public facilities and amenities, including swimming pools, libraries, parks, reserves, community centres, and recreational facilities;
  • Tourism development, information and support; and
  • Youth services.

You can view the proposed rates for 2023/24 below.

Rates FAQ's

How are my rates calculated?

The Shire applies a rate in the dollar that is multiplied by the valuation to obtain the rate amount for each property. A Gross Rental Valuation (GRV) is applied generally in town sites and suburbs, and an Unimproved Valuation (UV) is applied in rural areas.

GRV represents the gross annual rental income that a property might reasonably expect to earn annually if it were rented. This amount is determined by Landgate or the Valuer General and is generally re-evaluated every three years.

How can I object against a valuation of my property? 

Valuations of properties within the Shire have been supplied by the Valuer General, which is the responsibility of the State Government. The Shire has no say in how your property is valued.

If you wish to object against a valuation, you must lodge your complaint with the Valuer General or at the Shire Offices within 42 days of receiving a Rate Assessment Notice. The lodgement of an objection does not alter your obligation to pay the full amount of rates by the date specified in your assessment notice.

How do I notify change of ownership of property?

It is essential to notify the Shire of your change of address or change of ownership in writing via email or mail whenever a change of details occurs. Under the provisions of the Local Government Act 1995, when a person (whether as principal or agent) sells or disposes of land, the owner/agent must advise the Shire in writing within 21 days of the change in ownership, giving full details of the purchaser. To make the relevant changes, please email [email protected]

What is the Emergency Services Levy? 

The Emergency Services Levy (ESL) supports more than 26,000 fire and rescue, marine, and emergency services volunteers and funds over 1,600 firefighters. Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) staff provide 24/7 fire and emergency assistance across WA.

Your ESL contribution is included within your local government rates notice. To learn more about how your ESL is calculated, including information on the different ESL rates, limits and concessions, download the ESL flyer or visit dfes.wa.gov.au/esl

Am I eligible for pensioner/senior rate subsidies?

Eligible pensioners/seniors who wish to avail themselves of the Government’s rate rebate scheme must pay the required portion of the rates within the particular year for which the rates were levied. The Government will then pay the balance of the rates to the Council. Please note that Council’s Rubbish Charge is not subject to the rebate and must be paid in full.

If you are looking to claim the rebate, you are required by the Government to present your current concession card. If you are a pensioner who does not wish to take advantage of the rebate, you may continue to defer payment of rates as in the past. This deferment option is not available for seniors.

For more information, please contact the Rates Officer.  

How can I pay my rates?

Please click here for payment options and how to pay.