Rates help available for residents

Published on 06 July 2021

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Residents who are struggling to pay their rates are encouraged to contact Council for assistance.

Council maintains a Hardship Policy to provide assistance to ratepayers under a number of scenarios, such as loss of employment, family breakdown, physical and mental illness, a death in the family, or natural disasters.

Payment plans are available to residential ratepayers, and allows residents and Council to make a temporary reduced payment arrangement for rates and charges.

There is also assistance in the form of a rebate if hardship is experienced following a general revaluation of land.

Council's General Manager, Jay Nankivell, said Council was mindful of meeting the needs of locals who are experiencing financial difficulty during this difficult time.

"While rates are essential for Council to cover the cost of services to the community, we understand that there are times when individuals simply can't afford to make their payments," he said.

"We've had the Hardship Policy available for many years now, but we just wanted to remind the public that it is there to offer assistance if required.

"There's absolutely no stigma attached to asking for rates assistance, especially given the impact of COVID-19."

Ratepayers wishing to access Council's hardship assistance are encouraged to fill out a Hardship Application Form at Council's Administrative Centre in Blende Street.

Each application is subject to an approval process in line with regulations under the Local Government Act 1993.

A copy of Council's Hardship Policy can be found online at https://www.brokenhill.nsw.gov.au/Council/Policies/Hardship-Policy