General Rates
Based on property values (using the Capital Improved Valuation methodology), which are indicative of capacity to pay and form the central basis of rating under the Local Government Act 1989 .
A four-year Revenue and Rating Plan is adopted at the start of every Council term following a Local Government election.
The draft Revenue and Rating Plan 2025-26 to 2028-29 outlines Council’s decision-making process on how revenue and rates are calculated and collected. It determines the most appropriate and affordable revenue and rating approach for Bayside City Council, and sets guidelines for use in developing Council's Budget, Financial Plan and other strategic planning documents.
The Plan details how Council will raise the revenue needed to fund its activities. This includes:
- advocating for funding from other levels of government
- revenue sources such as fees and charges
- engaging in available investment opportunities
- ensuring the fair and equitable distribution of the remaining burden between ratepayers and other users of Council facilities and services.
We're seeking community feedback on the draft Revenue and Rating Plan until 5pm, 21 May 2025. Please provide your feedback via the online survey or submit a written statement below.
What is Council’s rating structure?
Council has established a rating structure comprised of three key elements.
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Service Charges
A ‘user pays’ component for council waste services to reflect benefits provided by Council to ratepayers who benefit from the collection and disposal of waste.
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Municipal Charge
A ‘fixed rate” portion per property to cover some of the administrative costs of Council.
Where does Council's revenue come from?
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59% - Rates and charges
The Revenue and Rating Plan explores the limited rating options available to Council under the Local Government Act 1989, including:
- Choice of valuation base (three options)
- Uniform rating vs. differential rates for various property classes
- Equitable differential rating levels across property classes
- Service rates and charges for waste collection
- Fixed charge for municipal administration
- Application of special rates and charges
- Review of rate payment dates and options.
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41% - other revenue
Council also provides various services and facilities to the local community and collects revenue as a contribution to cover the costs of service provision.
Other revenue sources makes up 41% of Bayside’s total revenue. The Revenue and Rating Plan outlines decision-making principles for other revenue sources including fees and charges, grants, external contributions, rental income, and interest income.
Have your say on the Revenue and Rating Plan
Complete the survey or upload a written statement below.
Timeline
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Timeline item 1 - complete
Proposed Revenue and Rating Plan 2025-2029 endorsed by Council
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Timeline item 2 - active
Community consultation
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Timeline item 3 - incomplete
Consideration of community feedback
May - June 2025
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Timeline item 4 - incomplete
Adoption of Revenue and Rating Plan 2025-2029
Council meeting 17 June 2025
Agenda for this meeting will be published Wednesday 11 June on Council's website.
