Why has Council separated waste cost from general waste?

A significant change this year is the separation of waste costs from the general rates charge and how it appears on the rate notice. This pre-empts an anticipated State Government mandate, as well as assisting the Town to meet increased costs from the Western Metropolitan Regional Council (WMRC) who receive and process the Town’s waste.

Please note that the separation of waste cost only applies to residential properties. The ‘Combined Waste Service’ charge of $585.00, is itemised on the notice.

What is the average increase to rates?

The Town has applied an increase of 5.4% on average to rates, after adjusting for the separation of waste services. This is a considered response designed to balance the demands from our community for appropriate levels of service and amenity and the economic challenges that are impacting our community and the Town of Cottesloe.

How can I pay my rates?

There are a number of ways rates can be paid and these include (details listed on the rates notice):

• Pay by phone (BPoint)
• Pay online via credit card here
• Pay in person at the Town of Cottesloe offices
• Pay by BPAY through your nominated account
• Pay by cheque/mail

Can I pay my rates in instalments?

Rates may be paid by 4 instalments with instalment interest being applied at the rate of 5.5%. To elect to pay by four instalments the first payment must be received by the due date as listed on the rates notice. Full details of the dates and instalment costs are detailed on the rates notice.

Important Dates and Rating Information

If I don't pay my rates on-time, will I get charged penalty interest?

Penalty interest of 8% per annum daily will continue to incur until the principal is paid.

For pensioners/ seniors please refer to the next question for more information. 

I am a pensioner/ senior, will I be charged interest if I don't pay my rates on time?

No, pensioners/seniors will not be penalised if they don’t pay by the due date. They can pay any time throughout the financial year.

A reminder letter will be sent in May (prior to the end of the financial year) to seniors/pensioners if rates are not paid in full.  Note that rate charges are required to be paid in full before 30 June otherwise the concession rebate will be lost.

Does Council offer hardship and payment arrangements?

Ratepayers experiencing difficulties in paying their rates, levies and charges can refer to the Town’s Hardship Policy (available on the Towns website).  Please contact the Town prior to the due date to discuss alternative payment arrangements with our Rates section.

What is the swimming pool fee for?

In accordance with Building Regulations 2012, all private swimming pools/spas are required to be inspected and the swimming pool fee is used to fund the Swimming Pool Compliance Program. All pools are inspected every four years.

I am a pensioner/ senior, will I get a concession rebate or discount?

Seniors with a valid WA Seniors Card are eligible for a 25% rebate for ESL and 25% for rates up to a maximum of $100. Pensioners who hold either a Pensioner Concession Card, State Concession Card, or both a WA Seniors Card and Commonwealth Seniors Health Card are eligible for a 50% rebate for ESL and 50% for rates up to a maximum of $750.

To be eligible, the applicant must be the owner-occupier of the property as at 1 July of the rating year. Partial concessions may be available for people who become eligible during that rating year.

To apply for a rebate, visit www.watercorporation.com.au/Bill-and-account/Apply-for-a-concession and fill in the application form. Once this is done the Town will be notified by the Water Corporation and a revised rates statement will be sent out.

How do I let the Town know that my postal address has changed?

Please inform the Town in writing for the service of notices either by emailing: town@cottesloe.wa.gov.au or by mail: PO Box 606, Cottesloe  6911.

You can also register for eRates and receive notices via email. 

My rates account is in credit, how do I request a refund?

Please let us know in writing and provide (1) proof of over payment (eg: bank statement) and (2) bank account details including account name, BSB and account number.

How is gross rental value determined?

Gross Rental Value (GRV) is the yearly income the property would generate if rented out. The valuation is provided and determined by the Valuer General (Landgate) and is updated every three years. The GRV is influenced by factors like property location, age, construction materials, size, car shelters and pools. By analysing property rents against these individual attributes and characteristics it is possible to assess a valuation for all properties, whether they are rented or not.

How do rates get calculated?

Rate in the dollar x GRV = Council rates

Rate in the dollar is adopted by the Council. Gross Rental Value (GRV) is determined by the Valuer General (Landgate)

Sample table of 2024-2025 gross rental value:

How do I object to my property's valuation?

A property owner may lodge an objection against the valuation of a property within 60 days of the date of issue of a rates notice. For more information visit www.landgate.wa.gov.au/valuations  r alternatively call Landgate on (08) 9273 7373.