Help us develop an improved Financial hardship policy

You’re invited to provide feedback on our draft Financial hardship policy. This policy assists ratepayers and debtors who are experiencing financial distress pay their Council rates or invoices. The Covid Financial hardship policy has been in place for 2 years and expires on 30 September 2022.

Council has now made some key changes to the revised Financial hardship policy that will replace the Covid Financial hardship policy from the 1 October 2022.

Key changes include:

  • The policy will now relate to all rateable properties in Merri-bek, including commercial properties in addition to residential.
  • Interest will not be charged for arrears where a payment plan, deferral or hardship arrangement is in place and the debtor is adhering to the agreed repayments and timeframes
  • The introduction of a special payment arrangement (payment deferral 3 Months).

Who can apply for rates relief under the Financial hardship policy?

  • Residential ratepayers

    Residential ratepayers who are suffering financial hardship and need extra time to pay their rates and apply to council for consideration of a delayed payment.

  • Small business ratepayers

    A family-owned business has been financially impacted by constant interruptions due to COVID regulations and staff shortages resulting in reduced income. They need extra time to pay their rates for their commercial property.

Tell us what you think

  • We have developed a draft Financial hardship policy and would like to hear your feedback.

    All responses should be submitted by 5pm on the 16 August 2022.

    Please read the draft Financial hardship policy prior to submitting feedback.

    Complete a brief survey to share your thoughts