Thousands of rates still unpaid as new financial year looms
AS A new financial year approaches, thousands of rates remain unpaid among Southern Downs residents.
Approximately 1,550 properties in the Southern Downs region currently have an outstanding balance that is not in a payment agreement.
The figure stands as the community anticipates the issue of new rates notices for the 2018-19 financial year.
A spokeswoman from Southern Downs Regional Council said the council expects to issue the 2018-19 annual rate notice in the second week of July.
This means payments will be due in the second week of August.
With electricity prices and drought putting added financial pressure on land owners, Southern Downs mayor Tracy Dobie said people who anticipate the need to access a long-term payment plan should contact the council now.
"If you think "yes this is going to be a difficult year for me” get ahead and get in contact with council's Manager Finance and get a payment plan in place,” Cr Dobie said.
The council received 870 requests for payment agreements in the 2017-2018 financial year.
People who pay their rates in full, including charges and arrears, within the 30 days will benefit from a 7.5 per cent discount.
For more information contact the council on 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 672).
