Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the Rates Financial Hardship Policy and General Hardship Policy have been fast-tracked in response to the COVID-19 virus.
“We know that many residential and commercial property owners have either lost their jobs or had their incomes reduced as a result of the shutdown of workplaces and businesses,” the Lord Mayor said.
“We have fast-tracked our policy to provide options to defer, reduce or waive rates and charges levied on a property – depending on the severity of the financial impact.
“If you are facing genuine financial hardship in paying your rates, fees or charges we urge you to contact council to discuss your individual circumstances. Our phone lines are open and we have staff available to support you.”
Applications will be open from Monday 30 March 2020 and ratepayers seeking support can contact 9658 9658. Small businesses should press 1 to speak to the COVID-19 Business Concierge Hotline.
Deputy Lord Mayor Arron Wood said Council has endorsed an economic package that includes 14 initiatives to support businesses.
“As the closest level of government to the people, we are acutely aware of how devastating this virus is for our residential and business community, ” the Deputy Lord Mayor said.
