A new rate structure - what is the fairest way to implement change?

Consultation has concluded

This consultation has now closed. Thank you to everyone who participated. Contributions will be collated and presented to Council for consideration.

With the help of our rate payers, Council would like to find the fairest and most equitable way to introduce changes to the rate system.

At the February ordinal meeting, Council agreed in principle to move from Net Annual Value (NAV) to a Capital Improved Value (CAV) rating structure. While the NAV system reflects the annual rental value of a property, the incoming CIV structure will take into account a property’s market value of the land plus buildings and other improvements. A CIV structure also allows for differential rates to be applied to various categories of ratepayers as well as flat charges.

Property values used in calculating rates are determined annually by the Valuer-General Victoria, the state's independent authority on property valuations.

Any change in the rating system would be effective from 1 July 2019.

Many different scenarios have been modelled, and four scenarios are now under consideration. With the help of our ratepayers, we want to find the fairest and most equitable way to introduce the CIV system, which may include various types of rates and charges to meet the costs of our services.

To provide your feedback on your preferred option, please complete the survey below.

Survey

Consultation has concluded

Which scenario is the fairest and most equitable?

The incoming CIV structure will take into account a property’s market value of the land plus buildings and other improvements. A CIV structure also allows for differential rates to be applied to various categories of ratepayers as well as flat charges.

Rates in the dollar (on CIV)

The rates are calculated by multiplying the property value (CIV) by the rate in the dollar; therefore your rates will increase as the value of your property increases.

Flat charges

Council is looking at introducing two flat charges as part of a CIV rating system which aligns with the Local Government Act. These charges are:

Municipal charge : A flat charge levied equally on all properties – it’s the same amount no matter what the property value is. Maribyrnong has not applied a flat municipal charge in the past.
Waste/ recycling charge: These are fee-for-service charges to recoup the cost to Council of the weekly curbside, hard waste and recycling collection service. Maribyrnong has not applied a waste charge in the past.

If introduced, this would be a flat mandatory charge to properties who are currently receiving a waste/ recycling collection service.