February 7, 2013
South Burnett Regional Council has extended the discount period for this quarter’s rates to help people affected by the Australia Day weekend floods.
“We understand some residents in our region have been badly effected by this natural disaster,” Cr Kratzmann said.
“This extension gives our residents, particularly our farmers, the opportunity to have some extra time to pay their rates and still receive a discount.”
Council has extended the discount period for paying rates by 10 days to March 28, 2013.
“After the floods, Councillors and staff, reviewed the damage in the South Burnett and it was very evident how badly this natural disaster has hit our farming community,” Cr Kratzmann said.
“We also wanted to let our primary producers know that if they have been directly effected and are suffering genuine hardship due to this natural disaster our staff may also negotiate other payment options.”
Finance Portfolio spokesman Deputy Mayor Keith Campbell said the extension would effect Council’s cash flow “however we believe the option to extend the discount period is a priority to help our community”.
“We would encourage all residents who were not directly effected by the floods to please assist Council by paying their rates as early as possible,” Cr Campbell said.
“This means the impact on our cash flow will be minimised and will assist the Council in continuing to put funds into our flood recovery works.
“Residents will receive their quarterly rates notices next week. There will be a letter with the rates notice letting people know they have an extra 10 days to receive the discount.”
People who have been adversely affected by the Australia Day weekend floods, and are suffering financial hardship, can contact Council to organise a payment plan.
