2025/26 Ad Valorem Rates and Notice of Extraordinary Meeting

Published on 18 July 2025

Oberon Council advises that, following a detailed review and reconciliation process prior to issuing the 2025/26 rates notices, a miscalculation has been identified in Council’s permissible rate income. This review was undertaken by Council staff after endorsement of the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) documents, and as part of final preparations for the distribution of rates notices by 31 July.

During this process, it was found that an error in the calculation of permissible income had occurred. This has resulted in discrepancies in the ad valorem amounts applied to each rateable category. If left uncorrected, Oberon Council would exceed the income permitted under the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021.

To ensure compliance with legislation, Council has two available options under the Local Government Act 1993:

Correct the ad valorem rates prior to striking the rates, or
Retain the excess income and seek Ministerial approval.

While both options are lawful and not uncommon, Council staff have engaged with the Office of Local Government to understand the appropriate steps forward. Under current legislation, a change to ad valorem rates must be determined by a resolution of Council. The matter will be formally considered at an Extraordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 23 July 2025.

Should Council resolve to adjust the ad valorem rates, this would result in a minor reduction to rates across all rateable assessments in the Oberon Local Government Area. The adjustment represents less than 2% of Council’s total permissible income. No changes are proposed to the Operational Plan at this time, and progress reporting will continue through Council’s Quarterly Budget Review Statements (QBRS).

Oberon Council remains committed to transparency, accuracy, and compliance in its financial operations and appreciates the community’s understanding as this administrative correction is finalised.

A copy of the Agenda and Business Paper for this meeting can be downloaded here: Extraordinary Council Meeting - 23 July 2025(PDF, 15MB)