Rates summary - Budget 2016-17

The Brisbane City Council rates summary aims to help explain the differences for rates, levies, discounts and remissions as a result of the 2016-17 Lord Mayor's budget.

General rates

In order to meet Council's commitments, residential rates have risen by 4.7%. These funds create jobs, reduce traffic congestion and help preserve our environment. The increase compares to 2.5% in the 2015-16 budget.

Separate rates and utility charges

  • Waste Management Charge has increased by 4.7% from $296.68 to $310.64.
  • Environmental Management and Compliance Levy (EMCL) has not increased. It remains at 5% of general rates which is a level that has not changed since 1997-98.
  • Bushland Preservation Levy has changed from being a flat fee of $58.52 to 3.5% of general rates. This means on average, residential owner-occupier properties will receive a reduction in their rates. Non-residential properties with a larger rates bill will see an increase. Find out more about how the Bushland Preservation Levy is used to protect and enhance Brisbane's natural environment.

Rate capping, discounts and remissions

  • Pensioner rates remissions will increase by 4.7%.
  • Not-for-profit organisations will continue to receive a partial-rate remission of 50% of general rates. Find out if your business might be eligible and how you can apply to receive this remission.
  • Council will continue to grant rate capping at 7.5% of general rates. This is for owner-occupiers of residential properties (categories 1 and 10). This amount remains the same as the previous budget.
  • Non-residential/commercial properties included in categories 16 and 17 have a rating cap of 5%. Find out more about rate capping.
  • Council offers remissions (discounts) on rates to eligible residents. This is for those with properties in categories 1 or 10 to pay their rates by the due date. This discount remains unchanged at $60 per annum.

Find out more about pensioner remissions, including amounts and eligibility.

Changes in minimum rates

In the 2015-16 budget this rate was the lowest in South East Queensland. Rates were $535.88 for owner-occupied properties and $669.24 for non-owner occupied. This is significantly below the average rate paid by many Brisbane residents. The minimum general rates have increased in the 2016-17 budget by $100 for owner-occupied properties and $150 for non-owner occupied. Despite this increase Brisbane will still have the lowest minimum general rates in South East Queensland.

More information

Full details of charges, discounts, eligibility, and rating categories in the resolution of rates and charges in the budget section.

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Brisbane City Council acknowledges this Country and its Traditional Custodians. We pay our respects to the Elders, those who have passed into the Dreaming; those here today; those of tomorrow.