The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) will call on the Queensland Government to develop a website that allows ratepayers to compare Queensland local government rates and charges, following a motion introduced at the LGAQ Annual Conference by Ipswich City Council.
Ipswich Mayor, Teresa Harding said the development of the website would allow residents to get a true comparison of local government rates and charges, including general rates, utility charges, special rates and charges as well as separate rates and charges.
“It is often very difficult for the public to compare rates and charges in different council areas – because they may not necessarily use the same metrics or presentation method,” said Mayor Harding.
“For instance, while one council may choose to highlight an average general rate, another may choose an average of all fees and charges, and these numbers cannot be compared because they are not measuring the same thing.
“Ipswich City Council is the most open and transparent local government in Australia, and with this motion being passed we are not only promoting transparency in Ipswich but also leading the way forlocal government in Queensland.”
Finance and Governance Committee Chairperson, Councillor Paul Tully said he was pleased the motion was passed.
“If this website is developed, it will allow ratepayers and media to have a clearer idea about what each council is charging and for what,” Cr Tully said.
“It will compel councils to contribute to a tool that allows an accurate and fair comparison of rates and charges across local government.
“This will make sure we are comparing apples to apples when it comes to determining what ratepayers are being charged for in each local government area in the state, helping reduce misinformation and confusion among the media and the public.
“Ipswich City Council is committed to transparency, and through this motion being passed, we are not only practicing transparency at our council but also leading the way for local government in Queensland,” he said.
The motion was carried at the LGAQ Annual Conference.
