The City of Cockburn is considering a 6.75 per cent increase in rates for the next financial year, a significant jump from the average 3.4 per cent rise over the past five years. The proposed hike would affect residential properties, vacant land, rural general properties, and commercial and industrial properties, including caravan parks.
For an average four-bedroom, two-bathroom home in Hammond Park, the increase could mean an extra $101 per year, or $1.94 per week, excluding annual levies such as pool inspections. The city plans to waive interest and administrative fees for approved payment instalment options to ease cost-of-living pressures.
The city needs to generate $153.95 million through rates to fund key projects and services for 2026/27, including the Victor George Kailis Park development, Atwell Reserve upgrades, the Beale Park redevelopment, and asset renewal at the Cockburn aquatic and recreation centre. General park enhancement, road resurfacing, and footpath maintenance are also included.
Residents have voiced strong opposition on social media, with one commenting, “It is not acceptable that the City of Cockburn thinks that ratepayers are cash cows. My salary increase was only 3 per cent.” Another suggested cutting new infrastructure spending to reduce the rate rise.
The city stated on its website, “Like our community, the city continues to operate in a challenging, high-cost environment, paying more to sustain current service levels for a rapidly growing community.” Public feedback closes on June 5, and the council will make a final decision at a special meeting on June 30.
