Financial hardship assistance
Northern Grampians Shire Council recognises some residents may have difficulty paying their rates account. We understand the financial pressures on people within our community and appreciate the current economic climate is making the cost of living challenging for some residents.
A quick phone call with our rates team is all it takes to let us know that you are experiencing difficulty. All enquiries made are kept strictly confidential and no further action will be taken unless you feel comfortable with the approach.
Adopting a payment plan is often an effective way to immediately ease the financial burden. In cases of financial hardship, additional assistance can be provided in the form of a referral to a free independent financial counsellor.
Payment plan support
In the event you believe a payment plan could assist you, a call with our rates team is all that is needed to get this started for you.
Payment plans are customised based on your requirements which are unique to each individual. If you would like to discuss this further, please give us a call on (03) 5358 8710.
Financial hardship support
Sometimes people need more than a payment plan to support them.
Council has a Personal Financial Hardship Policy(PDF, 145KB) to assist those experiencing genuine financial distress. Further information regarding assistance available can be obtained from council’s rates team.
Residents can use the form below to make an application for financial hardship relief. Applicants will be encouraged to enter into a payment arrangement. A referral to an independent financial counsellor can also be arranged as part of this process.
Additionally, the owner(s) of rateable land may apply for a waiver or deferral in respect of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) charge. The owner(s) of non-rateable residential land, which is leviable for the ESVF, can also apply for a waiver or deferral.
Further information regarding all forms assistance is available from our rates team by calling (03) 5358 8710 or by emailing rates@ngshire.vic.gov.au.