Rates information

Rate in the Dollar

Local Government Authorities in Western Australia levy rates against each property by determining a 'rate in the dollar'. The ‘rate in the dollar’ is then multiplied by the Gross Rental Value (GRV) of the property. The GRV is determined by the Landgate Valuer General's Office.

Example
At the start of the year the Shire of Jerramungup set the general rate in the dollar to 0.104750. If the Valuer General set the Gross Rental Value of your property to be $20,000 your rates levied would be calculate as - $20,000 x 0.104750 = $2,095.00.

Where the land is classified unimproved, which is usually land that has no approved buildings, the rate in the dollar is set lower. Unimproved land is set lower because if no one lives or visits a property the demand on services is usually less.

Local Governments also set a minimum on rates payable for a property. A minimum amount is determined by Council on the basis that all ratepayers should be making a reasonable contribution to cost of services, such as road maintenance.  If the rate in the dollar calculation is lower than the minimum rate set, then the minimum rate will be levied on your property.

2023/24 Rate in the Dollar 

Property Rate Type	Rate in the Dollar
Improved	10.990 cents in the dollar
Unimproved	0.5830 cents in the dollar

2023/24 Minimum Rate Payable Amounts

Property Rate Type	Minimum Amount
Improved	$765.45
Unimproved	$765.45

GRV – Gross Rental Value

Shire rates are calculated using the property's Gross Rental Value (GRV).  Your property's GRV is set by Landgate and revalued at a date set by the Valuer General. A rise in a property's GRV will make increases to your rates bill substantially more noticeable. 

If you do not agree with the GRV set on your property, you do have a right to appeal.  A property owner may lodge an objection against the valuation of a property within 60 days of the date of issue of an annual or interim (not instalment) rates notice. The lodgement of an objection/appeal does not alleviate a property owner’s responsibility or liability to meet a rates payment by its due date. Where a revaluation results in a reduction in a rating assessment, then any overpayment will be refunded. Appeals can be made through the Landgate website or by calling direct on 08 9273 7373 and quoting the VEN number located in the rating information section of your rates notice. This information can be found in the Landgate GRV brochure.