IPART is reviewing the special variation applications and submissions for 17 councils
We are now reviewing the ratepayer submissions and information provided by the councils, to come to a decision on the 2023-24 special variation applications. Our decision for all 17 councils will be released in June 2023.
We will be assessing each application against the guidelines provided by the Office of Local Government.
The councils that have applied for special variation for 2023-24 are:
- Armidale Regional Council
- Bega Valley Shire Council
- Bellingen Shire Council
- City of Canada Bay Council
- Federation Council
- Hornsby Shire Council
- Junee Shire Council
- Lithgow City Council
- Liverpool Plains Shire Council
- Port Stephens Council
- Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council
- Snowy Monaro Regional Council
- Strathfield Council
- Tenterfield Shire Council
- Tweed Shire Council
- Walcha Council
- Woollahra Municipal Council
The invitation for submissions is now closed
We have now concluded the IPART submission process for all 17 councils.
The invitation for submissions on special variation applications closed on the 5th of May for the following councils:
- Bellingen Shire Council
- Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council
- Snowy Monaro Regional Council
- Strathfield Council
- Tenterfield Shire Council
- Tweed Shire Council
Around 1,850 submissions were received in relation to the special variation applications across 17 councils.
Assessment criteria
We will assess special variation applications, having consideration for submissions received from ratepayers. The assessment criteria balances community concerns with the councils’ demonstrated need for additional revenue to improve financial sustainability and service delivery.
Where can I find more information?
There is more detail on the special variations process on our website here. Our fact sheet and information paper on special variations, our fact sheet and information paper on minimum rate increases along with our information paper on community engagement and awareness are also useful resources.
City of Canada Bay Council - update
The Chair of IPART, Carmel Donnelly PSM, is a residential ratepayer in the City of Canada Bay Council’s local government area. To avoid any perception of a conflict of interest, the Chair will not participate in the decision on Council’s application. When considering this application, the Tribunal members will be Deborah Cope (Acting Chair), Sandra Gamble and Mike Smart.
Enquiries
Any enquiries regarding special variation or minimum rate applications should be directed to Albert Jean by email to Albert_Jean@ipart.nsw.gov.au or by phone on (02) 9290 8413.