Municipal Rate Subsidy 2009-10

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Details
A subsidy of up to 30% on municipal rates and charges payable by eligible farmers who are assessed to be in Exceptional Circumstances (EC) and who receive Emergency Payments (EPs) or EC Relief Payments (ECRPs) from Centrelink.

The subsidy is pro rata in the first year, according to the date on which the ratepayer begins to receive EPs or ECRPs, and 30% in subsequent years.

The Municipal Rate Subsidy (MRS) was first introduced in July 2005 for a two year period, and then extended to the 2007-08 and 2008-09 rating years. The MRS for 2009-10 was announced on the 22 October 2009.

Who is eligible?
Farmers who receive Emergency Payments (EPs) or Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payments (ECRPs) from Centrelink between 1 April 2009 and 1 June 2010 and claim the subsidy within the required time are eligible.

The subsidy is available to eligible rural ratepayers on their rates for 2009-10. Note that the subsidy remains available for 180 days beyond the EP/ECRP date last paid as specified on the ratepayer’s Centrelink Income Statement or Interim Payment Letter. Where EP/ECRP payments ceased between 1 April and 30 June 2009 the subsidy remains available for 270 days beyond the EP/ECRP date last paid.

Subsidies must be applied for during the current year (i.e. a ratepayer cannot apply for a backdated subsidy for 2008-09 in
2009-10).

To claim the subsidy, a ratepayer must first complete an application form available from their local Council.

All claims for the MRS for 2009-10 must be finalised by Monday, 1 June 2010. This means that ratepayers wishing to claim the subsidy must present all evidence required to confirm their eligibility and pay the full balance owing to council by close of business on this date.

Further information
To claim the subsidy please contact your local council.

For further information contact the Drought Information Line on 136 186.

Last updated October 2009

Details on any drought related service or assistance are available from the Drought Information Line on 136 186 or at www.dpi.vic.gov.au/drought