What’s happening with rates and what if I am struggling to pay?
Published on 18 June 2025
This week, Kempsey Shire Council set the rates for the 2025/26 financial year, with Councillors adopting a 7.5% increase. The increase is half of the Special Rate Variation approved by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal.
The decision was not made lightly and was not supported by all Councillors. The vote was 5 for and 4 against but reflects the reality that Council cannot continue to provide the current level of services and manage its asset maintenance backlog with the current level of income.
By adopting only half of the approved increase this year, Councillors recognised the financial pressures on our community and the need to ensure Council can continue to deliver essential services and maintain infrastructure.
At the same meeting, Councillors discussed the extraordinary community and emergency service efforts during and since the May 2025 flood. They noted the devastating impact of the flood, the need for more financial support from the Australian and NSW Governments, and noted the Council financial relief available for impacted property owners. This includes:
- Property owners affected by the flood event can request a one-off extension on outstanding rates and charges. This extension is interest-free and available by simply calling Council.
- For those experiencing ongoing financial hardship due to the floods (or other reason) can apply for assistance under Council's Hardship Relief to Ratepayers Procedure.
- Ratepayers that can demonstrate a substantial increase in water usage because of the flood event can request water usage charges be reviewed; and
- That residents and businesses flood damaged waste is being removed at no charge.
As part of the discussion, Councillors acknowledged this support is just one part of the broader recovery journey and encouraged anyone who is struggling to reach out. For more information or to request assistance, contact Council on 6566 3200 or visit ksc.pub/Paying-Rates.