RFQ0000000267 - Rates Modelling and Review 2026
Undertake a comprehensive review of Council’s Rating Policy to ensure alignment with current legislation, best practice, and community expectations. Identify areas requiring update or amendment, including:
• Compliance with Local Government Act and relevant regulations
• Short Term Rental
• Retirement - Leasehold arrangements / Right to occupy
• Equity and fairness in rating structure
• Clarity and transparency of policy wording
• Opportunities for simplification or improved administration
This review will consider equity and fairness in the rating structure, clarity and transparency of policy wording, and opportunities for simplification and improved administration. It will also address emerging issues such as the treatment of short-term rental properties, retirement living arrangements (including leasehold and right-to-occupy models), and the impact of economic changes on ratepayer capacity. The objective is to deliver a policy framework that meets legislative compliance, reflects community expectations, and provides a sustainable approach to rating in a dynamic economic landscape.
Identify areas requiring update or amendment, including but not limited to:
Legislative Compliance
• Local Government Act 1999 (SA) and associated regulations
• Valuation of Land Act 1971 (SA)
• Ministerial guidelines and statutory reporting requirements
Emerging and Economic Considerations
• Impact of economic changes on ratepayer capacity
• Short-Term Rental properties and appropriate differential rating
• Retirement living arrangements (leasehold, licence, right-to-occupy)
• Hardship provisions and rate capping/postponement options
• Rate discount
• Rates – Activation of Vacant Land
Best Practice and Community Expectations
• Equity and fairness in rating structure
• Transparency and clarity of policy wording
• Opportunities for simplification and improved administration
Deliverables should include:
• Briefing and Report for Council
• Legislation Compliance Review
• Identification of areas requiring amendment or improvement
• Modelling of alternative rating structures and economic scenarios
• Recommendations for administrative efficiencies and compliance controls
• Community engagement considerations and explanatory materials
• Incorporation of emerging issues and consultant recommendations.
• Timeline for adoption and integration with Annual Business Plan.
Stakeholder Engagement
• Workshops with Rates and Finance staff.
• Briefing reports for elected members.
Continued-
The Consultant is welcomed to provide any additional information, expertise, which will enhance the outcome of this Review.
The objective is to deliver a policy framework that meets legislative compliance, reflects community expectations, and provides a sustainable approach to rating in a dynamic economic landscape.
Recommendations to consider changes in the approach to Rates.