Introduction

Council has developed a draft Special Rate and Charge Policy to provide a clear and transparent framework for how special rates or charges could be considered in the future.

Council does not currently have a policy to support this. This policy will assist our decision-making and provide guidance to Council officers for any future requests from community, businesses or trader groups.

The draft Policy outlines the principles, process and legislative requirements to guide us if we were ever to consider introducing a special rate or charge under the Local Government Act 1989 (Vic).

Learn more about the draft Special Rate and Charge Policy and share your comments below.

Feedback closes midnight Sunday 14 December 2025.

What is a special rate or charge?

A special rate or charge is a contribution that Council may collect from property owners to help fund a specific project or service that provides a direct benefit to those properties.

Any proposal for a special rate or charge must follow the requirements of the Local Government Act 1989 (Vic) which includes public consultation and the opportunity for affected property owners to make submissions.

Proposals for special rate and charge contributions can be initiated by Council, business precincts, community groups or others within the municipality.