There are no application fees.

1. Complete the Application form

If approved, arrangements for the postponement of a portion of your council rates will be confirmed in writing to you and all owner/s of the property.

If your application is denied, you will be advised in writing of the reasons for the denial. In this event, you will have the right to ask for a review of Council’s decision.

You are eligible for postponement of rates if:

• you are a State Senior Cards holder (or have applied for the card); and
• the property is your principal place of residence (where you live most of the time); and
• no other person, other than your spouse, has an interest as an owner of the property

If you have a current mortgage over the property which was registered prior to 25 January 2007 you are required to have at least 50% equity in your property.

If you currently have any mortgages or encumbrances on the property registered before that date you need to get a statement from your financial institution which indicates the maximum credit limit secured by the mortgage, to include with this application form.

A minimum amount of $500 of the annual rates must be paid, but any concession entitlement you have will be deducted from the $500 minimum amount, unless you indicate otherwise.

• The interest rate which will apply to the amount of rates postponed is prescribed in the Local Government Act (SA) 1999, Section 182A(12). Interest will be charged and compounded monthly on the total amount postponed, until the debt is paid.
• The accrued debt including interest is payable at the time of disposal or sale of the property. However, you have the discretion to pay all or any part of the debt at an earlier time.
• You must inform Council in writing within 6 months if your eligibility changes. For example, if you move out of your home or are no longer entitled to have a State Seniors Card.
• A $5000 maximum penalty applies for failure to inform Council in writing within 6 months of the change in eligibility [Local Government Act (SA) 1999, Section 182A(8)].
• Council will provide information about the postponed rates debt, and the interest accrued, with future rate notices.
• It is unlawful to make a false or misleading statement in your application. A $10,000 maximum penalty applies [Local Government Act (SA) 1999, Section 182A(9)].

Council Rates