How Rates are Calculated

In simple terms, rates are calculated by multiplying a property’s valuation by a rate in the dollar set by council.

Property Valuation

For most residents within our Shire, their property is valued using one of two methods, either Gross Rental Value (predominantly for townsite properties) or Unimproved Value (for rural properties). These values are determined by Landgate.

Gross Rental Value

The Gross Rental Value, or GRV, represents the gross annual rental that a property might reasonably be expected to earn annually if it were rented, including rates, taxes, insurance and other outgoings. For non-residential properties, GST is also included. The GRV is calculated for all properties regardless of whether the property is being rented or owner occupied. Vacant land is given a notional GRV which is 3% of the Unimproved Value of the land. New GRV valuations are made periodically, every 3 to 6 years.

Unimproved Value

Unimproved Value, or UV, is the value of land only. It does not include the value of your home, other structures or improvements. For land within townsites the UV does include merged improvements such as drainage, levelling and filling. New UV valuations are made every year.