Published on Monday, 31 August 2020 at 1:11:00 PM
Our Shire Councillors have adopted a COVID-19 Financial Hardship Policy. This Policy is designed to support the whole community in meeting the unprecedented challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the Policy is so that we can offer fair, equitable, consistent and dignified support to ratepayers suffering hardship due to COVID-19, while treating all members of the community with respect and understanding.
Financial hardship is considered to if you are unable to pay rates and service charges without affecting your ability to meet your basic living needs, or the basic living needs of your dependants. We know that COVID-19 may increase the occurrence of payment difficulties, financial hardship and vulnerability in our community.
This Policy is intended to assist all ratepayers experiencing financial hardship regardless of their status, be they a property owner, tenant or business owner.
If you are experiencing financial hardship you are encouraged to contact the Shire. You will need to provide evidence of hardship and any information about your circumstances that may be relevant for assessment.
We will consider all circumstances, applying the principles of fairness, integrity and confidentiality whilst complying with our statutory responsibilities. We will also take a flexible approach to a range of circumstances for example:
- Recent unemployment or under-employment
- Sickness or recovery from sickness
- Low income or loss of income
- Unanticipated circumstances such as caring for and supporting extended family
This Policy applies to:
- Outstanding rates and service charges as at the date of adoption of this policy; and
- Rates and service charges levied for the 2020/21 financial year.
After a full assessment of your circumstances a decision will be made on the options available to you in alignment with the Policy, this may include:
- Payment plan arrangements
- Removal of administration fees for the duration of the payment plans
- Deferment of rates
- Suspension of debt recover until 31 December 2020
In line with the Local Government (COVID-19 Response) Order 2020 any ratepayer identified as suffering hardship due to COVID-19 impacts will not incur late payment interest charges.
If you are experiencing financial hardship for other reasons please contact us to discuss your specific needs so we can discuss repayment options with you.
To discuss this Policy further please contact Steve Roberts, Finance Officer, on 9761-0800. You can view the policy here.
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