Your rate notice and what it means

The rate notice covers the period from 1 July to 30 June each financial year. There are generally three components to your rate notice:

1. General rate Council's General rates are calculated on the value of the property. A differential system of general rating is applied across the Shire depending on property type (residential, holiday rental, farm, commercial, industrial) and location. The General Rate is calculated by multiplying the Capital Improved Valuation of the property by the rate in the dollar.

2. Waste management charge A waste management charge is applied to all developed properties in declared service areas. Properties outside declared areas are not charged.

 

3. Municipal charge This is a flat dollar amount on each property to cover some of the administrative costs of the Council and is the same for all properties. This charge recognises that some benefits apply to all property owners irrespective of property valuation. Some properties are eligible for an exemption from this charge.

Late payment charge Penalty Interest will be charged on all late payments. Full payment of rates (unless you are paying by instalments) is due in February 2013.

In financial difficulty? Property owners having difficulty meeting rate payments should contact the Shire's Customer Services staff on (03)5232 9400. We have a range of options to assist those facing genuine financial hardship.

Pensioner rate rebates Pensioners who received a rebate last year and are still eligible will find the current rebate has been calculated and deducted automatically. No further application is required. Pensioners who did not receive a rebate last year and believe they are not eligible can apply on the appropriate form available from Customer Service Centres in Colac and Apollo Bay.

For more information on your rates or property please contact: Colac Otway Shire's customer services staff phone: (03)5232 9400 Email: inq@colacotway.vic.gov.au