What rates are used for
Rates are annual fees paid by property owners, that are then re-invested into the community.
Just some of the services and facilities covered by rates include:
- Community support services
- Environmental conservation
- Environmental health
- Libraries, leisure and community centres
- Planning, building and engineering
- Parks and reserves
- Roads and footpaths
- Safety and security
- Waste management.
More information is provided in the document below:
Statement of Object and Reasons - Rating Strategy 2022/23
What do I get for my rates
Find out about the 2022/23 rates and key projects in the Budget and annual report page and the Budget and Rates booklet.
How rates are calculated
Rates are based on two factors:
- The rate in the dollar set by Council each year at budget time
- The valuation of each property, as assessed by the Valuer General.
The annual rates for each property are calculated by multiplying the applicable rate in the dollar by the valuation (GRV or UV) of the property. This is subject to the Minimum Payment.
Rates = Applicable Differential Rate in the Dollar x Gross Rental Value or Unimproved Value.
Once rates are calculated, an Annual Rate Notice is generated and issued.
GRV and UV explained
GRV or Gross Rental Value, is the fair rental value of a property, as determined by the Valuer General. It is an estimate of how much it could be expected to receive if the property was rented.
UV or Unimproved Value, is the market value of a property, under normal sales conditions. It is determined as though the property remains in its original, natural state, excluding any buildings or other improvements.
Emergency Services Levy
The Emergency Services Levy (ESL) is a State Government charge which is forwarded to the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).
DFES funds Western Australia’s fire and emergency services. This includes all career Fire and Rescue Service, Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service, Bush Fire Brigades, State Emergency Services units and DFES units throughout WA.
Please visit the DFES website for more information about the Emergency Services Levy.
More information and contacts
For more information about rates please contact us.