Rate relief available for those who need it in Golden Plains

AS the final installment of 2019/2020 municipal rate notices go out, Golden Plains Shire is offering measures to help residents in financial distress if they require it.

With jobs lost and businesses closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic affecting people across the municipality, the Shire will suspend current debt recovery actions for all unpaid rates from the current financial year as well as not add interest to those dues, if the ratepayer qualifies.

Both measures will be in place until 30 September this year and are accompanied by a new COVID-19 financial hardship policy that outlines who is entitled to the interventions and what form they will take.

“Council’s new financial relief options will help those members of our community who need it the most with a new financial hardship policy specifically for ratepayers impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, tailoring options including suspending all current debt recovery action and waiving interest on overdue rates and pet registration fees,” said Shire mayor Cr Owen Sharkey.

The new policy identifies who is eligible for special consideration on rates and other council dues and debits.

They include businesses that have been able to take advantage of the Federal government’s JobKeeper program and households where someone has lost their job as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For people or businesses who don’t fit those two categories a third option involving assessment by Shire officers or an independent accredited financial counsellor is available.

Once a ratepayer is found to meet the requirements for special consideration, they’ll be required to enter into a payment plan with the Shire.

The other measures, like no further interest and suspensions of debt recovery processes will kick in once an agreement is reached.

Cr Sharkey said that the payment plans and other relief actions were for those experiencing financial hardship as a result of the current pandemic and if ratepayers were in a position to pay municipal rates and other Shire dues, they should.

“Residents who have not been directly impacted by this crisis can also make a positive difference by paying their rates and fees on the regular schedule, allowing council to continue delivering many essential services for our most vulnerable residents including Meals on Wheels and home and personal care for aged and disabled residents,” he said.

For more information on issues regarding municipal rates, or to view a copy of the new COVID-19 financial hardship policy, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au or call 5220 7111.