A waster rebate for households is among measures aimed at softening the impact of the coronavirus on ratepayers. Pictured: Mayor Ross Ebbels
The Borough of Queenscliffe will extend its rates hardship provisions to help property owners hard hit by the coronavirus under one of the Borough of Queenscliffe’s biggest-ever financial support packages.
Under measures approved at the April Council meeting, ratepayers who have lost their income as a result of the pandemic can access interest-free payments plans and deferrals for up to six months.
Council has also set aside $90,000 to a hardship reserve fund, to ensure additional support can deployed quickly if requires.
A further $130,000 in rebates on waste charges - a $42 saving per household - will also automatically applied to rates notices this coming financial year.
"We know many of our residents are struggling financially due to the ongoing effects of this pandemic," said Mayor Ross Ebbels. "That's why we'll be providing every resident with a rebate on waste charges, and offering additional, targeted support to those residents who need it."
The initiatives are part of a broader $309,000 package that also includes $85,000 in supports for small business including:
"Our local businesses aren't just the economic heart of the Borough, they're a fundamental part of our community's character," said Cr Ebbels. "These reductions in fees and charges will make sure businesses have fewer bills to worry about and can focus on navigating this challenging time."
Under measures approved at the April Council meeting, ratepayers who have lost their income as a result of the pandemic can access interest-free payments plans and deferrals for up to six months.
Council has also set aside $90,000 to a hardship reserve fund, to ensure additional support can deployed quickly if requires.
A further $130,000 in rebates on waste charges - a $42 saving per household - will also automatically applied to rates notices this coming financial year.
"We know many of our residents are struggling financially due to the ongoing effects of this pandemic," said Mayor Ross Ebbels. "That's why we'll be providing every resident with a rebate on waste charges, and offering additional, targeted support to those residents who need it."
The initiatives are part of a broader $309,000 package that also includes $85,000 in supports for small business including:
- Twelve months of fee-free environmental health, outdoor seating and A-frame permits.
- Six months of free rent for community groups and businesses operating out of Council-owned property
- Free access to professional business support services.
"Our local businesses aren't just the economic heart of the Borough, they're a fundamental part of our community's character," said Cr Ebbels. "These reductions in fees and charges will make sure businesses have fewer bills to worry about and can focus on navigating this challenging time."