DRAFT: Rates and Charges Policy
DRAFT - Rates and Charges Policy
We are inviting community members to review and provide feedback on the Draft Rates and Charges Policy.
Council recognises the importance of listening to our community when reviewing or changing policies, strategies and plans. Your feedback will help shape how rates are calculated in the future.
What is being proposed?
From 1 July 2026, Council proposes to change how general rates are calculated by moving from Capital Value to Assessed Annual Value (AAV).
- Capital Value: The total value of a property, including the land value.
- Assessed Annual Value (AAV): The gross annual rental value of a property, excluding GST, council rates and land tax. Legislation stipulates the AAV must not be less than 4% of the capital value.
These values are independently determined by the Valuer General under the Valuation of Land Act 2001 (Tas) and supplied to Council.
Why make this change?
Council regularly reviews its rates and charges policy in line with legislation.
The proposed changed from Capital Value to Assessed Annual Value aligns with the valuation methods used by other councils and the State Fire Levy calculations.
What stays the same?
- Councils’ current methodology to vary general rates based on land use and zoning under the Tasmanian Planning Scheme – George Town, including the application of Averaged Area Rates for each applicable land area as defined by in section 109B(1) of the Local Government Act 1993 (Tas), for residential properties
- Other charges still apply, including the Fire Protection Rate and Waste Management Charge
- Rate concessions remain available for eligible cardholders (DHS or DVA Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, or Veterans Affairs Gold Card – TPP)
- Payment dates remain the same (four instalments: 31 August, 31 October, 31 January and 31 March)
- Financial Hardship Policy remains in place
- Late payment penalties remain at 5% of unpaid amounts (up to a maximum 10% allowed under legislation) plus interest on overdue rates as determined annually by Council
Have your say
Council encourages community members to review the draft policy and provide feedback and comments. Objections to rate notices will continue to be considered in line with legislative requirements.
The DRAFT Policy is below for viewing as well as the current policy for comparison.
Consultation is open until 5pm on 15 May 2026.
How to get involved:
- Review the full DRAFT Policy below
- Provide feedback and comment via council@georgetown.tas.gov.au
- Or via the form below
- Preferred a printed copy? Hard copies can be collected at the Council Office on Anne Street.
- Have questions and would like to discuss with a Council Staff Member? We are hosting some drop-in sessions at the Council Chambers on Anne Street on:
- Thursday, 7th of May | 3pm – 4pm
- Wednesday, 13th May | 12pm - 1pm
