22 July 2020
Southern Downs Regional Council has effectively delivered a zero per cent rate rise until the end of 2020 to support the community and regional economy throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This change comes into effect as the Council adopted its 2020/21 Annual Budget today.
The actual rise of 1.9%, the lowest in more than a decade, will be offset by a COVID-19 Concession of 1.9%, which when applied at the time of billing on the rates notice equates to no cost increase to rate payers for the next six months.
Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor Vic Pennisi said the 2020/21 Annual Budget focused on steering the region through the COVID-19 recovery and the concession would provide some immediate financial respite to rate payers.
“There is no doubt that our region has felt the effects of COVID-19. In 2020/21, Council has delivered a fiscally responsible budget that accounts for both our recovery and our future,” Mayor Pennisi said.
“Offering a concession against the rate rise for the first six-months of the 2020/21 financial year provides our rate payers with much needed financial assistance as we recover from the crippling effects of COVID-19.
“We want to reassure residents that we are listening and are in their corner with them during this unprecedented time.”
In addition to the rate concession, Council has revised the billing process. From 2020/21, rates and utilities notices will be issued together in two, six-monthly instalments.
“Residents will still have the option to pay their yearly rates in full if they choose, however this billing change will give them the option to pay smaller twice-yearly payments,” Mayor Pennisi said.
The 7.5% early payment discount period of 60 days remains.
The 2020/21 Annual Budget can be found on Council’s website at www.sdrc.qld.gov.au.
For more information on Council news, visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/news. Alternatively, call 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372), email mail@sdrc.qld.gov.au, or use the MySDRC app.