Support
As a first step, if you find yourself struggling financially to make payment on your rates, complete a Financial Difficulties Application.
Once the application is reviewed, Council’s Rates Officer will discuss your options and create a payment plan that works best for you.
However, feel free to have a confidential discussion with us over the phone at any time throughout this process on 8862 0800. This can be a good starting point for those wanting more information and even before submitting your application to ensure you're on the right track.
Council has introduced a Policy which provides different payment plan options for people experiencing varying levels of financial hardship. These include setting up a direct debit payment and/or splitting up payments into weekly or monthly installments.
We have a brochure that dives deeper into these payment plan options.
State Government Concessions
South Australians on low or fixed incomes can access a range of concessions to help with household and other expenses. We suggest always checking if you are entitled to any of these concessions. You can check online at Concession Finder.
Those who could be entitled include low income earners, veterans, seniors, full time students and Centerlink Health Care Card holders.
Postponement of rates - seniors
Ratepayers who hold a State Seniors Card (or who are eligible to hold a State Seniors Card and have applied for one) are able to apply to Council to postpone payment of rates on their principal place of residence. Postponed rates remain as a charge on the land and are not required to be repaid until the property is sold or disposed of.
Financial Counsellors
Realising you're in financial trouble is stressful. But, did you know you can arrange for a financial counsellor to talk to Council on your behalf? Acting as an agent, they can try to negotiate a payment solution with us and one that suits you best.
The South Australian Financial Counsellors Association (SAFAC) can offer support and advice.
Visit www.safac.org.au or talk to a financial counsellor free of charge on 1800 007 007.
- Mon to Thurs: 9:30am - 8pm
- Friday: 9:30am – 4:30pm