South Burnett rates confirmed to rise by 1%, but rural residents finally catch a break

General rates across the South Burnett are set to be increased, while a last-minute motion will help rural ratepayers catch their breath after years of devastating drought.

General rates across the South Burnett will increase slightly, while a last minute motion will help rural ratepayers catch their breath. Photo/Holly Cormack

Relief for primary producers is on the horizon with the South Burnett Regional Council agreeing to zero increase until the end of the next financial year for ratepayers living on rural properties.

Cr Scott Henschen put forward the last-minute motion and said in addition to years of devastating drought, the rural sector had been hit the hardest after property valuations skyrocketed in 2019.

The motion was passed 6-1, with Mayor Brett Otto voting against it.

Cr Otto instead put forward an amendment to the motion, which would result in a 0 per cent rate rise for all ratepayers located in the South Burnett Regional Council area.

“I certainly recognise that the primary producers are going to take the brunt of the final year of the valuation increase,” Cr Otto said.

“They cop it with the weather, they cop it with the mouse plagues, they cop it with price increases. The last thing they need is for us to be putting up their rates.”

Cr Otto said while he supported the zero increase for farmers, he was also concerned about the pensioners who make up 30 per cent of the region’s population, and low-income earners.

Noting the council’s $3.3 million deficit, Cr Kirstie Schumacher said a small rate rise of 1 per cent for most residents would be a more responsible option.

“Even with the savings and efficiencies suggested today, we are still spending more money than we’re bringing in,” she said.

“In my opinion, a modest increase now is much more achievable than risking high rate spikes in the future.”

Cr Schumacher said the council must continue providing essential services to residents within the parameters of the budget.

The amendment was defeated 4-3 with Cr Schumacher, Cr Henschen, Cr Roz Frohloff and Cr Danita Potter voting against it.

Urban services charges such as waste collection sewerage, levies, and water connection and usage will see a slight increase for all ratepayers.