Feedback wanted for draft Special Rate and Charge Policy

Published on 19 November 2025

Council has developed a draft Special Rate and Charge Policy to ensure a transparent and consistent process for considerations of any Special Rate and Charge Scheme proposals made by our community.

A special rate or charge is a funding mechanism commonly used by Councils to help fund a specific initiative that provides a special benefit directly to those affected properties and their tenants. Initiatives are usually driven by the community and typically require at least 60 per cent support from the affected properties to be considered by Council.

Some examples of what could potentially include a special rate or charge include:

for business precinct marketing like events, promotions or branding
security enhancements such as improved lighting and CCTV in commercial zones
capital improvements like road, footpath, drainage or streetscape works for a specific street or geographic area

A Special Rate and Charge Policy outlines how Council will consider proposals for introducing a special rate, charge or levy in the future, and the processes and principles that guide those decisions.

“Council does not currently have a Policy so this new policy will assist us in our decision-making and provide guidance both to community members when establishing a proposal, and also for Council officers when a proposal is received,” Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari said.

Proposals for a special rate and charge scheme are usually initiated by business associations, community groups or property owners with a common interest, such as a shared street.

The draft Policy is in line with the Local Government Act 1989, which sets out when and how Councils can apply a special rate or charge, including requirements for consultation, transparency and accountability.

For more information about the draft Special Rate and Charge Policy, and to share your feedback, visit www.yourcityyourvoice.com.au/special-rate

Feedback closes midnight 14 December 2025.

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