Rates rise fears as land valuations soar
Council Rates
Douglas Shire ratepayers have raised concerns about pending rate rises as they receive notice of rising land valuations, fearing the hit to the hip pocket might be “unsustainable’’.
David Ohgh sparked the conversation with a post on the Port Douglas and Surrounds Facebook thread, sharing news that his property land valuation had increased by 67 per cent.
“Be prepared for rates to increase to an amount that is unsustainable,’’ he said, adding: “Agenda 2030 here we come.’’
The post sparked a host of feedback prompting Mr Ohgh to propose pushback from the community.
“If ever there was a time for a community to get together and protest this disgraceful rate hike in a cost of living crisis the time is now,’’ he said.
Other residents also commented on land valuations rising, with one saying their valuation had gone up by $70,000.
But commentators have been quick to point out to moves by some to blame council for what may come as a rate hike, saying that Local Government does not instigate land valuation increases.
“Our unimproved value of land is the base that LG uses to calculate our rates charges,’’ said Yvonne Bochow.
“The Valuer General Office has to look into land value every four to five years. If you really want to point fingers then feel free to blame the real estate agents pushing up prices and people changing land uses for increases in unimproved land valuations.’’
Council rate increases were central to an impassioned call to arms by Douglas Shire Ratepayers Association President John Sullivan last November, when he said rates for many have increased by 29 per cent in about four years “seemingly without any strong justification”.
“Two years on from our Council elections, I believe we still lack the vision and leadership to provide the ratepayers of Douglas Shire with a strong sense of direction,’’ Mr Sullivan said.
“Agriculture has no clear future. Many roads and drainage projects are still under repair from the rain events post Cyclone Jasper. The second water intake on the Mossman River still hasn’t started with the contract to be let in early 2026.
“Adding insult to injury, the Council voted for an 8.5 per cent rate rise in its latest budget.’’
He outlined there had been a 29 per cent increase of rates to many in the Shire since 2021 with little justification from the Council or any outcry from ratepayers.
