HORNSBY Shire Council has welcomed news that the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has approved in full its application for a Special Rate Variation (SRV).

Council has stated that it applied for the SRV to ensure it can continue to support and provide the community with the levels of service it has come to expect through maintaining financial sustainability, long term sustainable management of community assets and implementing priority strategic initiatives. This was Councils first application for an SRV in over a decade.

“We acknowledge that by implementing the SRV, the community would see a moderate rise in our rates, coming at a time when many are feeling financial pressure. I want to emphasise that we take our responsibility to manage our resources very seriously. As responsible stewards, we want to reassure people that we remain committed to continuing the highest levels of service while spending their money wisely.” Hornsby Shire Mayor Philip Ruddock stated.

It’s highly likely that Hornsby Shire Council will adopt the SRV resulting in rates increasing from 1 July 2023.

Rates would rise by 8.5% in 2023/24, 7.5% in 2024/25, 6.5% in 2025/26 and 5.5% in 2026/27. This includes the annual rate peg set by IPART.

“From these funds, in addition to well-maintained assets, the community can expect to see a large range of tangible improvements in the coming years. These include upgrades to public toilets, community centres and sportsground amenities. We will start work on a connected network of walking and cycling paths and improve our bushwalking paths.” Mayor Ruddock stated.

To address concerns in the community around financial hardship, the pensioner rate concession will increase by $50, to $300 per annum, commencing from the 2023/24 financial year.

For further information about the SRV visit yoursay.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/srv.