Property valuations
Municipal property valuations are governed by the Valuation of Land Act 1960 and are conducted annually. Ratepayers have a right to object to the valuation of their property but must lodge their objection within two (2) months of receiving their rates notice.
Once received by Council, your objection is referred to the valuer who will give you an opportunity to discuss your objection.
Further information about lodging an objection, as well as the Rates/valuation objection forms (Residential, Rural and Commercial/Industrial property) can be accessed on our Rates forms and documents page here.
Frequently asked rates questions
How are rates calculated?
Rates are calculated according to the Capital Improved Value (CIV) of your property. This is the value of the land plus buildings and any other improvements. Rates are calculated by multiplying the CIV value of your property by a rate in the dollar which council sets in order to fund the budget. For example, if the rate is set at 0.001915 cents in the dollar, and your property is valued at $250,000 then your rates will be:
$250,000 x 0.001915 = $478.75
Who decides the Capital Improved Value (CIV)?
In accordance with the Local Government Act, all properties across the shire are valued annually by a qualified valuer appointed by the Valuer-General.
The valuer calculates the CIV of a property based on a combination of property sales analysis and rental evidence.
A revaluation redistributes the rates burden among ratepayers and does not result in any additional revenue to Council.
As a result of a revaluation, ratepayers will receive different rate increases dependant on the movement in valuation.
What are Differential Rates?
The average general rate and the municipal charge will increase by 2.75%.
Council’s differential rates as of 1 July 2024 are:
- Rural 1 properties (not less than 40 hectares in area) - 70% of the general rate
- Rural 2 properties (greater than 4 hectares and less than 40 hectares in area) - 99% of the general rate
- Vacant land (as defined) - 200% of the general rate
- Commercial/industrial - 125% of the general rate
Council offers a subdivided vacant land differential rebate. Further information including details of eligibility criteria are available on the application form.
Updates to be processed after issue of Rate notice (August/September).
What is a Supplementary Rate?
If an amendment is made to the valuation to include any changes to the property, additional costs could be payable, for which a supplementary rate notice will be issued.
What is the State Revenue Office?
The State Revenue Office uses the site value to assess land tax under the Land Tax Act 1958. Objections to the site value must be made to the State Revenue Office within the time limits prescribed under the Valuation of Land Act 1960. A taxpayer does not have a right of objection to a council valuation arising from its use for land tax, which occurs at a later time than the use for council rates.
Further information on the use of valuations for land tax can be found by visiting the State Revenue Office website.