The Farm rebate remained at 46.5%. This rebate provides ongoing rate relief to farmers (33% rebate 2006-2007, 40% rebate 2007-2008, 45% for 2008-2010, 45% for 2009-2010, 46.5% for 2010-2011). In 2011-<strong>2012</strong> a 46.5% rebate represented $2.3M. The pensioner concession will increase from $187.60 to $193.40 which is the movement in CPI for Melbourne as advised by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The rate waiver provisions are retained for year 2 of 2010 valuation. Residential Rates Increases The total increase in rates and charges for a property with the average capital improved value of $328,762 was $55.40 or 4.9%. This increase was made up of $41.20 for General Rates, and $14.20 for the Waste Collection service. Residential Properties 2010-2011 Rates on Av CIV $ 2011-<strong>2012</strong> Rates on Av CIV $ General Rates CIV x Rate in $ 841.09 882.29 Municipal Charge 82.30 82.30 Waste Collection Service 199.00 213.20 Total Rates and Charges 1,122.39 1,177.79 Page 18 <strong>Rating</strong> Strategy <strong>2012</strong>-<strong>2013</strong>
<strong>Rating</strong> Strategy <strong>2012</strong>-<strong>2013</strong> Introduction Council Responsibilities The purpose of Local Government is to provide for the peace, order and good government, facilitate and encourage development, to provide services and facilities for the community and to maintain, improve, and develop the resources of the municipal district. Local Government must operate in accordance with the Local Government Act (1989) and has responsibility for implementing many diverse programs, policies and regulations set by State and Federal Government. Councils have to be flexible and therefore have powers to set their own regulations and by-laws and provide a range of discretionary services in response to local community needs. Each Victorian municipality is different. Community demographics will vary in terms of age, prosperity, topography and service requirements between councils. Council Profile The City of Greater Geelong serves a population of some 220,000 and covers an area of 1,250 sq. km. From Little River and Balliang in the north through to the Bellarine Peninsula and west to Waurn Ponds, Barrabool, Ceres and Fyansford, there is significant and diverse land use activities, demographics, topography and community needs. The City is a leading industrial centre for Victoria’s southwest, with approximately 6,700 commercial and industrial properties and a strong labour force. The residential sector is experiencing growth which impacts on services. Tourism is now more important while a diverse culture and environment is unique in a regional municipal setting in Australia. The City of Greater Geelong is responsible for $1.7 billion worth of regional assets and infrastructure including roads, bridges, town hall, recreation and leisure facilities, drains, libraries and parks. There are more than 120 services provided to the local community from cradle to grave. Every time a person leaves their house they use services provided by Council. From roads, foot and bike paths, public street lighting, litter bins, school crossings, library books, sporting facilities, community meeting spaces and places, community halls, swimming pools, playgrounds, parking spaces, public tips, youth and family counselling and support, baby capsule hire, childcare programs, preschools, school holiday programs, maternal and child health services, head lice and immunisation programs. In-home services include child care, parenting and baby health advice, provision of parking permits, access via internet, demolition, building and renovations, garbage, recycling and green waste removal, personal care, home maintenance, meals on wheels and respite care. Local laws are important for community amenity for the safety, peace and order as well as public health, care of Council property and the environment. Hazard reduction to noise, fire, abandoned vehicles, parking, street stalls, disabled parking, street furniture, graffiti, animals, nuisance pets and busking permits are all required to be controlled by Council. Council collects rates from residents and businesses to help fund its community infrastructure and service obligations. Council’s approach to service strategies, budget setting according to priorities and annual rate setting is crucial as to how these services are provided to the community. In terms of per capita rates the City of Greater Geelong has a lower rate when compared to most rural municipalities; however, Council is required to and can provide a full range of services due to economies of scale, scope and aggregation. Services are utilised by non-residents of neighbouring councils, marginally increasing the cost of service to residents. In comparison, many metropolitan councils have lower per capita rates due to economies of scale and interlinking of services with other neighbouring councils. For example, one council may have a high amenity retail sector, another focusing on industry, whilst another council may provide specialist training or aquatics venues. This cross use of facilities and the ability to specialise leads to a reduced cost of service provision. <strong>Rating</strong> Strategy <strong>2012</strong>-<strong>2013</strong> Page 19