By Tanya Faulkner
It appears some of the state’s most disadvantaged are being walked over by local councils, after the release of recent data exposing councils’ policies for overdue rates in communities around Victoria.
Unfortunately for Knox residents, the municipality doesn’t fare well in the stats.
Council Watch investigation found that some councils have arrears of over 15 per cent of their rates bills, including City of Knox Council, and neighbouring Cardinia Shire Council.
According to data gathered in their investigation, Knox council has just over $8,000 worth of arrears, which adds up to approximately 16 per cent of rate payers in arrears across the municipality, and just over 1,200 on payment plans.
These figures are nothing compared to Cardinia Shire Council, which stands at just over $15,000 in arrears from approximately 17 per cent of the shire population, and just over 1000 residents on payment plans.
However, the key difference between the two falls under their hardship applications, with Cardinia shire sitting at 86 to Knox Council’s 10 applications.
Surprisingly, despite only being approximately $2,000 in arrears, the Yarra Ranges Shire Council is showing 447 hardship applications to date.
The data shows that most councils around Victoria, including in the Hills, are not offering any kind of rebates or waivers for those who are financially struggling in local communities, despite there being thousands of applications for help.
Council Watch also said it appears to be too hard for ratepayers to find out how to apply for relief or hardship, and suggested local councils make it an easier process.
According to Knox City Council Mayor Marcia Timmers-Leitch, locals have options when it comes to their rates.
“Council offers payment assistance options for people who have suffered loss of income or are in financial difficulty, in accordance with our Payment Assistance Policy.
“Should residents be experiencing hardship I would recommend they contact us at either 9298 8000 or email knoxcc@knox.vic.gov.au to discuss options specific to their circumstances.
“However, penalty interest may be applied to overdue rates, in accordance with the Local Government Act,” she said.
