Rates summary - Budget 2017-18

The Brisbane City Council rates summary aims to help explain the differences for rates, levies, discounts and remissions as a result of the 2017-18 Lord Mayor's budget.

General rates

In order to meet Council's commitments, residential rates have risen by 2.4%. These funds create jobs, reduce traffic congestion and help preserve our environment. The increase compares to 4.7% in the 2016-17 budget.

Separate rates and utility charges

  • Waste Management Charges were renamed Waste Utility Charges and have increased by 2.4% from $310.64 to $318.08.
  • Environmental Management and Compliance Levy (EMCL) remains at 5% of general rates. This is a level that has not changed since 1997-98.
  • Bushland Preservation Levy remains at 3.5% of general rates. 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 2.4%.
  • 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). The amount remains the same as the previous budget.
  • The rate cap for non-residential/commercial properties included in categories 16 and 17 is 7.5% for 2017-18. 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

Minimum general rates have increased in the 2017-18 budget by $50 for owner-occupied properties. The increase is $75 for non-owner occupied properties. This brings them to $685.88 and $894.24 respectively. 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 are in the resolution of rates and charges in the budget section.

Last updated:

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.