A Western Australian council's proposal to hike fees by a staggering 266 percent has sparked outrage, prompting a formal complaint to state parliament. The City of Subiaco's plan to increase various charges has drawn sharp criticism from residents and local businesses, who argue the move is excessive and lacks adequate justification.
Fee Increases Under Fire
The proposed fee hike covers a range of services, including building approvals, planning applications, and animal registrations. For instance, the cost of a building permit could rise from $1,000 to over $3,600, while planning application fees may jump from $500 to $1,830. The council claims the increases are necessary to cover rising operational costs and ensure financial sustainability. However, critics contend that the scale of the increase is disproportionate and will place an undue burden on ratepayers.
Community Backlash
Local resident John Smith described the proposal as “outrageous” and said it would discourage development and small business growth. “This is not just a minor adjustment; it’s a massive leap that will hurt families and entrepreneurs,” he said. The Subiaco Chamber of Commerce has also voiced concerns, warning that higher fees could deter investment and stifle economic activity in the area.
Political Response
State MP for the region, Jane Doe, has lodged a formal complaint with the state parliament, calling for an inquiry into the council’s decision-making process. “Residents deserve transparency and fairness. A 266 percent increase without clear justification is unacceptable,” she said. Doe has urged the council to reconsider the proposal and engage in meaningful consultation with the community before any changes are implemented.
Council's Defense
Subiaco Mayor John Brown defended the proposal, stating that fees had not been adjusted for over a decade and that the increase was necessary to maintain service levels. “We understand the community’s concerns, but we must ensure the council remains financially viable. These fees are still competitive compared to other metropolitan councils,” he said. The council has scheduled a public meeting to discuss the proposals and gather feedback before a final decision is made.
Next Steps
The complaint to state parliament will be reviewed by the Local Government Minister, who has the power to intervene if the fee hike is deemed unreasonable. Meanwhile, residents are being encouraged to submit their objections during the public consultation period, which runs until the end of the month. The council is expected to vote on the proposed fees in early next quarter.
