The City of Cockburn has made a decisive move to keep development costs down, voting to maintain contribution rates for builders at a level below official recommendations. This strategic choice aims to sustain growth momentum within the local government area, despite concerns about potentially undercharging for vital community infrastructure.
Council Votes to Maintain Lower Rate
At a special council meeting held on November 27, 2025, elected members voted 6-1 to adopt a staff recommendation to keep developer contribution provisions at their current, lower rate. The meeting was notably brief, concluding in just five minutes without any debate or commentary from councillors. Councillors Chontelle Stone, Tom Widenbar and Philip Eva were absent from the session.
This decision followed earlier discussions where city staff warned against increasing the fees, fearing it could deter development. Acting director of sustainable development and safety, Carol Catherwood, highlighted at a November 11 meeting that a proposed hike would be "extraordinary," significantly impacting all developers, including those undertaking small-scale projects like two-lot subdivisions. "We’re talking about adding zeroes, quite substantial amounts of increase," she said.
Balancing Growth with Infrastructure Needs
Development contribution provisions have been a part of the City of Cockburn's town planning scheme since 2011 and are scheduled to conclude on June 30, 2031. These funds are crucial, earmarked to pay for essential community infrastructure triggered by new housing estates. This includes roads, drainage systems, community and recreation centres, sporting facilities, and libraries.
The contribution rate requires an annual review before the end of November. While consultants had advised an increase, a council report presented a counterpoint. It noted that growth in the city was running at about 55 per cent of what had been forecast, despite huge demand for land. The report argued that "maintaining at least some momentum in development in Cockburn could be achieved by applying a lesser rate."
Looking Ahead to a Major Review
The council's decision represents a short-term strategy to incentivise construction activity. A workshop was scheduled prior to the special meeting to allow staff to present various financial scenarios to the council, underscoring the complexity of the issue.
The debate is far from over, however. A major review of the entire contribution plan is scheduled for next year. This comprehensive evaluation will likely re-examine the balance between attracting development and ensuring new communities are adequately serviced with public facilities, setting the stage for future policy directions.
