Council is committed to assisting customers who are experiencing adverse financial hardship, and offer payment arrangements such as interest free extensions and interest free payment plans to ease the burden.
During this difficult period of COVID-19, Council recognises that there are residents and business owners who have been adversely affected financially, both directly and indirectly, and encourage those affected to apply to Council for hardship assistance.
Payment Arrangement Options
There are three types of payment arrangements available.
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Payment extension and lump sum payment
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When payments are placed on hold for a period of time, and the full outstanding amount is paid in a lump sum on a specific date. A payment can be extended by up to six months.
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Payment extension and payment plan
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When payments are placed on hold for a period of time, and upon an agreed date, commence payment of your rates in smaller, regular instalments (weekly, fortnightly or monthly) over a period of time, up to 12 months. You don't have to pay a lump sum fee. You need to consider how much you can pay so you can meet each ongoing payment amount, and future obligations.
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Payment plan only
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A payment plan allows you to gradually pay your rates in smaller, regular instalments (weekly, fortnightly or monthly) over a period of time, up to 12 months. You don't have to pay a lump sum fee. You need to consider how much you can pay so you can meet each ongoing payment amount, and future obligations.
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How To Apply
To request a payment arrangement, please contact Council before the due date by submitting a Hardship Assistance – Payment Arrangement form.
This will show us that you're aware of your obligations and doing your best to meet them. Council may agree to write off interest charges accrued during the period of the payment arrangement
For businesses renting the property and seeking rates relief – you will require your landlord to apply to Council for hardship assistance.
If you would like assistance in completing the form please contact Customer Service on 02 9330 6400.
COVID-19 Impact - Business Advice
Information on the NSW Government's COVID-19 financial support for businesses is available on this website: COVID-19 financial support for business.
Hardship Assistance - Frequently Asked Questions
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Does Council offer discounts on rates for pensioners?
Council offers rebates and concessions for eligible pensioners who own and occupy a rateable property. Visit Council’s Rebates for Pensioners page for more information and how to apply. Visit our Rebates for Pensioners page for more information
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If I am receiving a rebate on my Council rates, can I still apply for financial assistance?
Yes, if you are experiencing financial difficulties you may apply for financial assistance.
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Will a payment arrangement affect my credit rating?
Entering into a payment arrangement with Council has no impact on your credit rating.
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I already have a payment arrangement with Council but my circumstances have changed.
You can apply for a new payment arrangement by submitting a new Hardship Assistance – Payment Arrangement form along with any supporting documentation.
If your request is approved, we’ll cancel your previous plan. If Council agrees to an interest write-off, it will start from the date you enter into the new plan.
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What if I default on my payment arrangement?
The payment plan may be cancelled and all outstanding rates will be due immediately. Any agreement to write off interest will be forfeited.
Note: If you default on a payment arrangement, we may ask you to make a higher upfront payment or higher regular payments or both, before we agree to a new plan.
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