Four years between valuations too much of a shock: Barcaldine mayor

The council was one of those impacted by the recent revaluations handed down, wearing a 28 per cent overall increase in values or 39pc for land used for primary production.

While that's not as high as some of the rises seen, such as a 100pc increase for rural land values in the Charters Towers region, and 97pc in the Isaac and Central Highlands shires, the variability of the valuation change made it difficult for Barcaldine councillors to manage.

The shire isn't putting forward an argument for or against valuation increases - the mayor, Sean Dillon said that wasn't their place - but says leaving it for four years to revalue the land put them in a difficult position in trying to set council rates.

"Under our proposal, some are paying $5500 more in rates and some $5500 less, so we're not altering the whole rate take," Cr Dillon said.

"It's not a substantial rate rise, 5pc or $125,000 more all up, and we know we'll give 3pc back after successful objections, based on past experience.

"More people will pay less rates this year than last, based on our model, but the increase will be borne by those with a 50pc rise, which is a lot in one hit.

"As it has been four years since the last land valuations were released in 2017, the variations in land values are greater than would be seen if the land was revalued annually."

Read more: Rural land values confidence continues

Cr Dillon, whose property received the second highest land revaluation in the region, said while there had been some substantial rural property transactions, they had mostly been between family members or to neighbours.

"The lengthy period between valuations is the biggest contributor to the 'shock' that this revaluation delivers," Cr Dillon said. "Secondly, the diversity of our region will always deliver a differential, but if the valuations were more periodic than they have been, the adjustments to accommodate this would have been more consistent and less dramatic."

As well, a reduction in residential land values in Barcaldine, Jericho and Alpha means that more residential ratepayers will move onto a minimum general rate.

The council has placed a table showing every rate assessment and the impact of the proposed rate for 2021-2022 on its website and is asking ratepayers for feedback.

"Please take the time to look at how the proposal will impact your situation," Cr Dillon said. "I stress that this is a proposal, released for public information and comment."

In the meantime, he urged landholders with a concern with their land valuation to engage directly with the Valuer-General through the established process for review/objection.

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