Rates

Want to understand the rating system and what council rates pay for? Visit lga.sa.gov.au/councilrates.

Rates are set annually through a Business Plan and Budget process. Council undertakes community consultation each year on the draft Annual Business Plan and Budget in April/May. Register to have your say.

This financial year Council is presenting an operating deficit position (excluding subsidiaries) with an on average rates increase of 9.8 per cent for 2024/25 (excluding vacant land and growth on subdivisions). Council has committed to finding savings and reviewing existing services and service levels this financial year. This rates increase is higher than the March 2024 Local Government Price Index (LGPI) of 4.4 per cent The rate increase is higher than LGPI, due to the Council shortfall from four years of setting rate increases below LGPI as well as the continuing increase of capital expenditure and construction industries which has resulted in significant asset revaluation increases and higher depreciation.

Property valuations are set by the Valuer-General and are not within Council’s control. The large increases in property values are due to the current trends in the housing market.

If property owners disagree with their valuation, an objection can be raised directly with the Valuations Office. 

Council also has a rates calculator should you wish to estimate an approximate impact on your rates. Please note that Council will adopt the final rates and valuations on 25 June which will determine the impact you see on your rates bill next year.

Should you have any further questions, please feel free to read through the information below. You will find a lot of information on rates and payment options including information in Mandarin. 

Alternatively, please free to contact our Rates Team on 8366 4200 or via email at burnside@burnside.sa.gov.au.