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Overdue rates and financial hardship

How to request financial support with paying your rates and get free, confidential financial counselling.

If financial hardship is preventing you from paying your rates by the due date, we can help.

We are committed to offering alternative payment arrangements for commercial and residential ratepayers.

Request financial support

If you’re experiencing financial hardship, please let us know as soon as possible to avoid overdue charges. We can provide a payment plan to suit your situation.

If you need any assistance with this form, please call customer service on 03 9205 5555.

Financial hardship policy

Our financial hardship policy outlines our approach to financial hardship. It aims to give you a clear understanding of the options and assistance available to you.

Financial counselling

We offer free and confidential financial counselling if you're experiencing financial difficulties.

Overdue rates and charges

Under Section 181 of the Local Government Act 1989, we have the power to sell your property when:

  • rates (including enforcement costs and interest) are more than three years overdue
  • there is no current arrangement for paying overdue rates
  • there is a court order requiring the payment or part-payment of overdue rates.

Penalty interest

You will be charged penalty interest on any outstanding rates owed. Charges will continue until you make full payment of the outstanding amount, plus any interest.