How Does The City Of Stirling Calculate Rates

Estimate your annual rates based on property details and valuation

How Does the City of Stirling Calculate Rates?

The City of Stirling calculates property rates using a system that combines property valuations with differential rating categories. This comprehensive guide explains the methodology, factors influencing your rates, and how you can estimate your annual obligations.

1. Understanding the Rating System

The City of Stirling uses a differential rating system where properties are categorized based on type and usage. The primary valuation methods are:

• Gross Rental Value (GRV): Used for most residential properties, representing the annual rental value
• Unimproved Value (UV): Used for commercial properties and vacant land, based on land value only
• Net Annual Value (NAV): Used for some specialized properties

These valuations are determined by the Western Australian Valuer General and updated periodically (typically every 3-5 years).

2. Rate in the Dollar Calculation

The core of Stirling’s rating system is the “rate in the dollar” – a multiplier applied to your property’s valuation. For 2023/24, the standard rates are:

Property Category	Rate in the Dollar (GRV)	Rate in the Dollar (UV)	Minimum Payment
Residential (Urban)	0.06895	N/A	$1,250
Residential (Rural)	0.05780	N/A	$850
Commercial	N/A	0.01245	$1,800
Vacant Land	N/A	0.01870	$500
Farmland	0.03210	0.00895	$400

Calculation Example: A residential property with GRV of $45,000 in urban Stirling would pay: $45,000 × 0.06895 = $3,102.75 (before minimum payment check).

3. Key Factors Affecting Your Rates

1. Property Valuation: Higher GRV/UV means higher rates. Valuations are reassessed periodically.
2. Location: Urban properties typically have higher rates than rural properties.
3. Property Type: Commercial properties often pay higher rates than residential.
4. Services Received: Waste collection and recycling add fixed charges.
5. Rebates: Pensioners and seniors may qualify for significant discounts.

4. Additional Charges and Fees

Beyond the basic rates, property owners may incur:

• Waste Service Charge: $350 annually for 140L bin collection
• Recycling Service Charge: $120 annually for 240L recycling bin
• Fire Services Levy: Varies by property value (collected by DFES)
• Special Rate Areas: Additional charges for specific local improvements

5. Rebates and Concessions

The City of Stirling offers several rebate programs:

Rebate Type	Eligibility	Maximum Rebate	Application Required
Pensioner Rebate	Pension Concession Card holders	50% up to $750	Yes (annual)
Senior Rebate	Seniors Card holders (non-pensioners)	25% up to $500	Yes (annual)
Deferred Payment	Pensioners with financial hardship	Full deferral	Yes (with approval)
Charitable Exemption	Registered charitable organizations	100%	Yes (with documentation)

Applications for rebates must be submitted by 30 June each year to apply to the current financial year’s rates.

6. Payment Options and Due Dates

Rates are typically due in four installments:

• 1st Installment: 31 August
• 2nd Installment: 30 November
• 3rd Installment: 28 February
• 4th Installment: 31 May

Payment methods include:

• BPay (preferred method)
• Direct debit
• Credit card (with surcharge)
• Mail (cheque/money order)
• In person at City offices

7. Appealing Your Valuation

If you believe your property valuation is incorrect, you can:

1. Request a valuation review from the Valuer General within 60 days of receiving your notice
2. Provide comparative rental evidence for GRV properties
3. Engage a professional valuer for independent assessment

Note that appealing your valuation doesn’t suspend your obligation to pay rates by the due date.

8. Recent Changes to Stirling’s Rating System

For the 2023/24 financial year, key changes include:

• 3.5% average rate increase (in line with CPI)
• Expanded pensioner rebate eligibility
• New waste charge structure with optional green waste service
• Digital rate notices now default (paper notices by request)

Important Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only. Actual rates may vary based on final valuations, council decisions, and individual circumstances. For official rate calculations, always refer to your annual rate notice from the City of Stirling or contact their rates department directly.

Authoritative Resources

For official information:

• City of Stirling Rates Information
• WA Department of Local Government Rates Guide
• Landgate Property Valuations