Rates across the city are being reviewed and are set to change from July 2021, with Mayor Khal Asfour saying it will bring about fairness and equity for all ratepayers.
The imbalance stems from the merger of Canterbury and Bankstown councils, and Mayor Asfour said residents may not be aware that home owners pay different rates depending on where they live in the City.
“We all share the parks, the pools, the libraries and the roads, so it is only fair we all contribute equally to the cost of these facilities,” he said.
The harmonisation of rates across the city will affect every ratepayer and is a requirement of the NSW Government.
However, former Canterbury Council Deputy Mayor Barbara Coorey says she is very concerned at the proposed rates increase particularly as it is being levied on the ratepayers of the former local government area of Canterbury – “this is grossly unfair”.
“This will cause massive financial hardship (both for businesses and residential property owners alike) and whichever way you sugar coat, this it is unfairly being imposed on our ratepayers,” she said.
As the City grows, the council says it will need to invest even more to deliver modern services and infrastructure. To do this, it is seeking an extra $40 million per year, through a Special Rate Variation.
At last week’s meeting, the council resolved to begin community consultation on December 1, ensuring everyone will be made aware of the proposed new structure and have their say.
This will include: An information pack delivered to all business and residential ratepayers; a number of information sessions – both in person and online; dedicated rates phone number; and comprehensive information available on the council website, including translated materials.
For more information, visit cb.city/OneRate.
