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HOW ARE RATES DETERMINDED?
Budget Explainer With Budget time fast approaching, Deputy Mayor and Finance Portfolio Councillor Chris Wilson explains how Council determines rates. grants, before determining how much needs to be raised through rates.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council’s 2026-27 Budget will be realistic and in line with our community’s actual needs, while at the same time allowing sufficient resources to support our growing community, Council’s Deputy Mayor and Finance Portfolio Councillor Chris Wilson says.
“Council works out how much funding is needed for the year, then sets different rates for different property types (for example, residential, rural or commercial). These rates are applied to property values to work out each owner’s share, so the total collected matches Council’s budget.
“There is often a lot of confusion surrounding Budget time and how Council determines what rate rise is necessary.
“Councils may consider increasing rates if there is a need for new infrastructure, to expand services or respond to rising costs, like fuel prices being driven by the Iranian conflict or increased cost of road infrastructure materials.
“Budgets determine funding for everyday services such as roads, local parks and reserves, playgrounds, libraries, local infrastructure, and waste collection, as well as looking ahead to new projects and longterm improvements. “In a snapshot, the Budget process shapes how councils invest in their communities.
“At the end of the day, we’re just like a household – navigating pressures on costs and income and regularly looking at spending and our overall budget, while also planning to keep rates affordable,” Cr Wilson said.
“Councils plan their budgets carefully to balance community needs with financial sustainability and are guided by long-term financial plans and asset management plans.
Cr Wilson said the 2026-27 Budget, set to be handed down in July, would focus on what’s important.
“We look at costs, population changes and local needs and decide which services and projects will be delivered in the coming year.
“Every community has different needs, and we will continue to look at what our priorities are in line with rising costs, changes to our population and long-term planning goals,” he said.
“Once this is finalised, it then determines how much revenue is required.
To watch the Operational Plan and Budget Explainer video, scan the QR code or click the link below.
“We also consider other income sources such as
WATCH COUNCIL’S BUDGET EXPLAINER VIDEO TO LEARN MORE www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/budget-explainer
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