Rates payment plan application

Use this form to apply for a payment plan if you are having trouble paying your rates. For more information see Difficulty paying your rates.

Please note, if you have previously entered into a payment plan that was cancelled in the last 2 years due to missed payments, you will need to pay any outstanding balance before a new plan can be approved.

Payment plan conditions

All payment plans have the following conditions.

  • No penalty interest will be charged while your payment plan is active.
  • You must set up a regular payment method once your plan is approved. Periodic BPAY is recommended.
  • New rates and charges are not included in your current plan and must be paid by their due dates.
  • If two or more payments are missed, Council may cancel your plan, apply interest, and refer the account to collection agents. You will be notified if this happens.

Payment plan options

Council offers two types of payment plans, depending on your circumstances.

Standard payment plan

This option is for ratepayers who can pay their rates over time but need extra time to do so.

A standard payment plan allows you to pay your rates and charges by the end of the financial year.

Step 1.Review your options

Please ensure you read all available options along with Council’s Rates Financial Assistance and Hardship Policy before applying.

Step 2.Submit an application

Apply online

Alternatively, you can download the hardcopy form:

Rates payment plan application form(PDF, 250KB)

Rates payment plan application form(DOCX, 111KB)

Step 3.Start making payments

It is important to start making payments from the proposed date, even if you have not received confirmation.

Step 4.Application review

Council will review your application within 14 business days.

Some requests, such as rate waivers or longer-term plans, may take up to 30 days.

Step 5.Outcome notification

You will be notified of the decision once the review is complete.

Financial hardship payment plan

This option is for ratepayers experiencing severe financial hardship.

A financial hardship payment plan may allow rates to be deferred while your situation is reviewed.

Step 1.Review your options

Please ensure you read all available options along with Council’s Rates Financial Assistance and Hardship Policy before applying.

Step 2.Prepare supporting documents

Council requires supporting documentation to assist with reviewing your application fairly and efficiently. This may include:

  • bank statements for all accounts held by the owners
  • any documents that support your situation, such as proof of employment, medical records, Centrelink statements, or recommendations from a financial counsellor.

Step 3.Submit an application

Apply online

Alternatively, download the hardcopy form below:

Rates financial hardship application form(PDF, 265KB)

Rates financial hardship application form(DOCX, 112KB)

Step 4.Start making payments

It is important to start making payments from the proposed date, even if you have not received confirmation.

Step 5.Application review

Council will review your application within 14 business days.

Some requests, such as rate waivers or longer-term plans, may take up to 30 days.

Step 6.Outcome notification

If approved for Council’s financial hardship program, all interest charges and recovery actions will be paused. Please note, rates will continue to be levied, so Council encourages you to make additional payments whenever possible to prevent falling behind.

Step 7.Annual review

Your financial hardship arrangement will be reviewed each year, unless you have made other arrangements with Council.

Need help?

For more information or to discuss which option may be right for you, please contact Council on 1300 88 22 33. Speaking with someone early can help prevent further costs and stress.