PORT Stephens Council has endorsed measures to support those experiencing financial hardship.

General manager Tim Crosdale said the new rates measures began this month and would support the long-term financial sustainability of council, ensuring the continued delivery of services.

“Even though our rates will remain one of the lowest in the region, we know that with the cost of living increasing, some residents will still find any additional costs tough,” Mr Crosdale said.

“A key part of our application for the SRV (special rate variation) was to make sure we had the right provisions in place to help the most vulnerable in our community.”

An SRV allows councils to submit to state government applications to increase rates more than a cap set annually by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal.

To succeed in an SRV application, councils must make allowances for people affected by the increase.

“Just a few weeks ago, our councillors endorsed a number of new affordability measures to support those experiencing financial hardship,” said Mr Crosdale.

“These measures include options around extra time to pay, arranging smaller regular payments such as a fortnightly direct debit, or deferring the payment of rates for aged pensioners against their property estate.

“In addition, as part of our rates assistance program, we’ve partnered with local financial counselling services to provide ratepayers experiencing financial hardship access to financial assistance of up to $500 for individuals and families or $250 to those who already receive a council pensioner rate concession,” Mr Crosdale said.

Coinciding with the new rate structure is the revaluation of land rates by the valuer general, which informs rate pricing. This is a process required by state government and undertaken every 3 years by the valuer general.

“The impact of land revaluation is varied – some people will pay more, others less and some will be the same. If your costs increase following the valuation, you may be eligible for financial assistance,” said Mr Crosdale.

“Finally, for those that have accrued interest when they weren’t able to pay in exceptional circumstances, we’ll be able to help.

“We encourage anyone in our community who’s finding it difficult to pay their rates to get in touch with us – our team are here to help and provide you with the support you need,” Mr Crosdale said.

For more information go to portstephens.nsw.gov.au/financial-hardship