THE deadline is almost here for the 2016/17 Southern Downs Council rates discount.
Payments must be made by 5pm on Friday 12 August for residents to claim the discount. Southern Downs Regional Council mayor Tracy Dobie said that almost 30 per cent of rates had so far been paid – but noted that many people choose to pay their rates closer to the discount deadline.
“We do remind people, particularly those paying by BPAY, to make sure their payment is received by the council by 5pm on the due date,” she said.
“Many financial institutions require a couple of days to process payments and send them to the council.
“Only people who have paid their rates and charges in full by the due date will be eligible for the 7.5 per cent discount.”
Payment options can be found on the back of the rates notice and all ratepayers are encouraged to read this information.
Cr Dobie also acknowledged ratepayer concerns with the earlier issue of notices.
“During the 2016/17 budget deliberations, the council decided to bring the rates notice issue date forward to July, and it is our intention for future rates notices to be issued in July each year,” she said.
“The council does understand that some ratepayers may experience difficulty in paying this year’s rates by the discount due date.
“I would encourage those concerned to contact the council’s revenue team and discuss their options on a one-on-one basis with our staff.
“The council is quite prepared to consider payment agreements, and anyone wishing to explore this option can drop into community contact centres, or call our 1300 number.”
Ratepayers also have the option to receive their future rates and water notices through BPAY View or by email.
For further information about the rate discount, payment options, entering into a payment agreement or to request future notices via BPAY View or email, please contact the council on 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372) or drop into one of the community contact centres in Warwick and Stanthorpe.
