Councils reject Labor calls for rates exemption
The local government sector has rejected a proposal from the Labor opposition to waive council rates for people on welfare for six months, saying it would significantly reduce essential services.
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South Australian councils should waive the rates of all people on welfare for six months according to the Opposition.
Labor treasury spokesman Stephen Mullighan made the plea for financial relief on Tuesday following similar calls for the State Government to cut fees and charges for the next six months.
But it has been rejected by the local government sector.
Under the proposal, workers would have their rates waived from March 1 if they were eligible for the Federal Government’s Jobseeker or Jobkeeper payments.
Mr Mullighan said the measure would put “thousands of dollars back in the pockets of South Australians at a time when they really need it”.
“Many South Australians are facing a sudden loss of income and wondering how they are going to pay the bills,” Mr Mullighan said.
“Councils can help ease that burden by waiving rates for the next six months and the State Government help out by waiving a raft of government fees and charges.”
Local Government Association president Sam Telfer said a “blanket exemption” could “significantly reduce councils’ capacity to deliver essential services, and work with state and federal governments to drive economic recovery”.
“Councils are considering a range of options for providing relief to ratepayers impacted by (coronavirus),” Mr Telfer said.
“It’s important that any relief and support provided is targeted to those in our communities that need it most.”
Local Government Minister Stephan Knoll did not offer direct support for Labor’s proposal but called on councils to support people suffering financial stress.
“We need all three tiers of government to pull their weight for us to get through this pandemic,” Mr Knoll said.
“Both the Federal and State governments have announced significant economic stimulus packages in recent days to help those in need.
“Councils must also play their part and ensure they have hardship policies in place to support those ratepayers impacted by coronavirus.”
Salisbury, Charles Sturt and Barossa councils have so far agreed to waive penalties for late payment of rates.