Perth Voice Interactive

WA’s biggest local government, Stirling city council, has set its lowest rate hike in almost 20 years.

As part of its 2015/16 budget, the council this week locked in a 1.9 per cent rate rise—the lowest since 1997/98 and likely the most modest of any across Perth.

Homeowners will get an average rates bill of $1225, while those in the purple circle of Mt Lawley/Inglewood/Menora/Coolbinia are likely to pay about $1300 for a four-bedroom, two-bathroom house. Council finance manager Ingrid Hawking says the low rise is possible because of the large ratepayer base and big-ticket revenue items.

“An additional $31.8m is generated from the competitive rubbish service charges and $25.5m from the city’s fees and charges,” Ms Hawking says.

by EMMIE DOWLING