Council stands by rates decision to keep cost down for more locals

6 August 2026

Southern Downs Regional Council is standing by a recent budget decision to introduce a new Non-Principal Place of Residence (NPPR) rates category to stop a rates hike for owner-occupiers and keep essential infrastructure and services running.

Mayor Melissa Hamilton said Council welcomed community discussion, like the Town Hall meeting in Warwick last night, and remained committed to listening to residents.

“We will continue to answer questions in relation to the NPPR rate category and consider any matter raised from last night’s meeting,” Mayor Hamilton said.

“Ultimately, we rejected the rates option to hit owner-occupiers harder, including local families already under pressure from rising costs of living,” she added.

“This meant a median increase of just 3.5 per cent for owner-occupiers which is lower than many councils across Queensland and below CPI.”

“The budget decisions we make as a Council always have the best interests of as many residents as possible in mind. I’m grateful for the positive community feedback we’ve also been receiving during challenging economic times.”

“For those investors who live in the Southern Downs, we’ve kept home rates and business rates lower as a result of this decision.”

Before adopting the 2026/27 budget, Council undertook extensive community engagement, receiving around 2,000 survey responses and speaking directly with more than 400 residents. Proposed changes, including the introduction of the NPPR rating category, were outlined as part of that engagement process.

“It was a positive result and shows just how much people care about the future of the Southern Downs,” Mayor Hamilton said.

Mayor Hamilton said councils across Queensland were facing increasing costs and difficult decisions when preparing annual budgets.

Mayor Hamilton assured the contribution landlords and property investors make to the region is highly valued.

“While recognising the decision would not be universally supported, Council remains confident we acted in the broader interests of the community,” Mayor Hamilton said.

Residents who believe their property has been incorrectly categorised are encouraged to contact Council.