Estimate how the proposed rebalancing of the rating structure will affect you

Background on the Rebalancing of Rates

During the October 2023 meeting, Leeton Shire Council resolved to initiate consultation on a three-year program aimed at recalibrating the rating structure. This initiative aims to align Leeton's rating categories with those of similar-sized councils in New South Wales.

What This Is NOT About:

• This is NOT about raising overall rates beyond what is allowed by the annual rate peg.

What This IS About:

• The primary objective is to more equitably reclibrate the rates collected by the Council among three key categories:
• Residential (approximately 75% of ratepayers)
• Farmland (approximately 15% of ratepayers)
• Business (approximately 10% of ratepayers)

Proposed Changes in Detail

For Farmland Ratepayers:

• Farmland properties will be exempt from the annual increases set by IPART (Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal) for the next three years.

For Business Ratepayers:

• The rate increases that would have applied to farmland will be shifted to business rates over this three-year period.

Introduction of Subcategories:

• Two new subcategories for businesses will be established: Business-Industrial Leeton and Business-Industrial Whitton.
• For three years the 'Industrial' subcategories will shoulder 75% of the rate increases redistributed from farmland.
• While the the 'Business-General' category will bear the remaining 25% of these increases for three years.

From Year 4 Onwards:

• All categories, including the newly created industrial sub-categories, will revert to the standard rate peg as defined by IPART from the fourth year.

No Changes to Residential Rates

The Council is NOT proposing any changes to the current rating structure for residential properties. Rates in this category will continue as per the standard annual rate peg guidelines.

Use the Calculator to Review Proposed Changes to Property Rates

How to Use the Calculator:

1. Find Your Property Assessment Number: You'll need this number to get started. This number is located on your most recent Council rates statement.
2. Need Help Finding It? Click here to view an image that shows where to find your assessment number on your statement.
3. Rate Peg Assumptions: The numbers presented are approximate and based on estimated rate pegs of 3.5% in year 1 and 2.5% every year thereafter.

Please Note:

• Indicative Information: The data generated by this calculator is for indicative purposes only. For more detailed and personalized information, especially if there have been changes in the primary use of the land or if you have supplementary information affecting land value, please contact the Council directly.
• Land Value Revaluation: Land values are subject to revaluation every three years by the Valuer-General. The next revaluation is anticipated for the year 2026/27, which may affect your future rates.