Buying guide

Council rates explained: a home owner’s guide

(Including average rates by city)

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 3 February 2025 | 4 min read
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Council rates are a tax for property owners that funds local services like waste collection and infrastructure. Your bill is based on your property's Capital Value (CV), which is determined by a ratings valuation (RV) every three years.

You may also pay targeted rates for specific services in your area. A rates rebate discount is available for some low-income homeowners. Payment is flexible, and average annual rates vary by city, from around $2,600 to $3,500.

What are council rates?

How are city council rates calculated?

Homeowners pays rates based on their location and the value of their property.

Your ratings valuation is based on three things:

What about targeted rates?

What is a rates rebate?

Paying rates is easy. Most councils allow you to do it online.

How do I pay rates?

How much should I expect to pay for council rates?

Author

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty
Content Writer