Rates and charges

Council levies and collects rates to raise revenue for the provision of essential services and infrastructure to the community. These services include but are not limited to roads, drainage, water and sewerage infrastructure, waste collection facilities and public facilities such as parks and libraries. Each year as part of the budget process, Council determines the rates and charges for the financial year.

Types of rates and charges

Council has decided that in accordance with section 94 of the Local Government Act 2009 and sections 80 and 81 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, differential general rates will be levied on all rateable land in the Council area.

Fees and charges

Douglas Shire Council has adopted a fees and charges schedule for the 2023/24 financial year.

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Issue of Notices

Rate notices are issued half-yearly – approximately in January and July each year. Water Usage notices issued three times a year – approximately in February, June and October each year.

Property Valuations

The Valuer-General provides statutory land valuations for all rateable properties in Queensland in accordance with the Land Valuation Act 2010. The new valuations take effect for local government rating or state land tax purposes (where applicable) on 30 June in the year the notice is issued.

Remissions/Concessions and Rebates

Pension remission applications must be in writing on the prescribed form and contain a declaration as to the accuracy of the information contained therein. The Council pension remission rebate will be up to 40 per cent of the General Rate to a maximum of $1350 per annum.

Rural Addressing

Rural addressing is a method of identifying and addressing rural properties throughout Australia. For new residences, Council will supply and install a post and the reflective rural numbers at no charge.

Payment options

Council offers a variety of payment options for rates and water billing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a question about your rates? We may already have the answer.

Revenue Sources

Councils are required to adopt a budget for each financial year.  The annual budget must be consistent with the aims and direction of the council’s corporate plan, its revenue policy and annual operational plan.