Uralla Shire Council has welcomed the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal’s (IPART) approval of its Special Rate Variation (SRV), which will help ensure essential local services and infrastructure can be maintained and meet the growing needs of the community.
Mayor Cr Robert Bell acknowledged that any increase in rates is challenging for residents, particularly in the current cost-of-living environment.
“We know that any rates increase can be difficult, and Council does not take this decision lightly,” Cr Bell said.
“However, this outcome would allow Council to continue delivering the services our community relies on every day — from local roads and bridges to parks, libraries, waste services and community facilities.”
The public exhibition period for Council’s Operational Plan and Budget 2026-2027, which assumed approval of the SRV, has concluded and Council will now consider any submissions received before adopting the Budget at its next Ordinary Council meeting on 23 June.
While Council generates income from rates, government grants and service charges, this revenue has not kept pace with rising operating costs, growing service expectations and increased cost shifting from the NSW Government.
Acting General Manager Mick Raby said Council had spent many years taking actions designed to keep rate rises to a minimum, such as organisational restructuring, service reviews and a range of efficiency measures.
“But these efforts alone have not been enough to offset the impact of Federal and State Government cost shifting and the ongoing increase in operating costs,” Mr Raby said.
“Without additional revenue, Council would be forced to make extremely difficult decisions that directly impact service levels, asset maintenance and future investment.
“This approval allows us to plan responsibly, rather than defer critical maintenance and increase risks to safety and infrastructure condition.”
The approved Special Rate Variation applies only to the general rate and does not affect other service charges such as water, sewer, waste or stormwater.
Under IPART’s determination, general rates would increase by 28.5 per cent in 2026–2027, followed by a further 23 per cent increase in 2027–2028. The amount payable by individual ratepayers will vary based on land value and rating category, as determined by the NSW Valuer General.
As Council is committed to spreading the rates burden as fairly as possible, a new rate category has been introduced for renewable energy companies operating in the Shire. This ensures this growing industry contributes its fair share to local services and infrastructure.
Council will continue to review the rating structure to ensure it reflects the expectations of the broader community.
Media Release: Uralla Shire Council
