2019/20 Budget - Further support provided to monsoon-affected ratepayers
Date published: 25 June 2019
Townsville City Council is providing further support to ratepayers directly impacted by the unprecedented monsoon.
Three-month rates extensions will be offered to ratepayers who were directly impacted by the monsoon for the next two six-monthly rates notices.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said the three-month rates extensions would help ease the financial burden of recovering from the city’s worst natural disaster.
“Council understands that many households and small businesses may have a number of unexpected bills from clean up and repair works,” Cr Hill said.
“These extensions will allow property owners who had their property damaged during the monsoon more time to pay their rates bill.
“Proving support to help our community recovery from this natural disaster is Council’s top priority.
“Recovery will be a whole of community effort, but Townsville residents have an amazing spirit of resilience and mateship that will help to get us through this.”
Townsville Local Recovery and Resilience Group Chair Deputy Mayor Les Walker said many families and businesses were still facing a long road to return to normal.
“The rate of recovery will vary between households and businesses and Council understands that this process may take a significant amount of time for some,” Cr Walker said.
“The rates extensions will provide property owners and small businesses extra capacity to plan and budget while they are getting back on their feet.
“The Townsville Local Recovery and Resilience Group is also taking a role in trying to ensure the insurance industry plays a responsible role in rebuilding our city.”
