Media Release: Council's First Special Rate Variation in Over a Decade

Published on 16 May 2025

Upper Hunter Shire Council has received confirmation from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) that its application for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) has been approved marking Council's first successful SRV application in over a decade.

The approved funding increase forms a critical part of Council's comprehensive financial strategy to ensure long-term sustainability and maintain essential services and infrastructure that our community relies upon daily.

The approved variation allows for a 10% increase in general rates each year for three years. This includes IPART's annual rate peg of 4.3%, with the remaining 5.7% attributable to the SRV. The total cumulative increase over three years will be 33.1%.

Mayor Maurice Collison said the additional income will help Council address infrastructure challenges while avoiding major service reductions.

"This isn't something we've done lightly, this is the first time in a decade that IPART has approved an SRV from Upper Hunter Shire Council. While many other councils have made a number of SRV applications over the last decade. Upper Hunter Shire Council has maintained the recommended IPART rate peg over this period." Cr Collison said.

"By the third year, the average increase for a residential property in the shire will be around $4 per week but the long-term benefits to our community are substantial. This modest investment will allow us to continue and improve maintenance of local roads, enhance waste services, and ensure our community facilities remain safe and accessible for years to come."

The SRV application was lodged with IPART in February 2025, following extensive community consultation across our townships throughout 2024. IPART conducted its own independent assessment before delivering this determination that supports Council's evidence-based approach to financial sustainability.

Council's draft 2025/26 budget (currently on public exhibition) was prepared on the assumption that the SRV would be approved. Without this approval, significant adjustments would have been required to remove unfunded projects. The budget including the IPART determination will be considered at the June 30 Council meeting.

"We're committed to transparent communication about how these funds will be used," added Cr Collison. "Residents can track our progress on key projects through regular updates on Council's website and community newsletters."

More information is available at:
Special Rate Variation