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Hawkesbury ratepayers are being warned to brace for one of the biggest rate hikes in the Council’s history, with a plan now on the table to raise rates by almost 40% over four years.
At the Council meeting on 9 September, councillors considered a proposal for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) that would see rates climb by 11.73% each year for three years, followed by another 3.9% increase in the fourth year.
For the average household, this would mean:
- An extra $132 in the first year,
- $284 more in the second,
- $460 more in the third,
- and by the fourth year, nearly $500 extra every year compared to today.
Small businesses and farms would face the same steep percentage rises.
Council’s Case: A $99 Million Backlog
Council staff argue the increase is necessary to deal with a $99 million backlog of road, stormwater, building and park upgrades, warning that without extra funding, the shortfall could balloon to $170 million by 2035.
Roads are highlighted as the greatest pressure point, with many deteriorating faster than Council can afford to maintain. While past natural disasters brought in state and federal grants, those funds are now drying up, leaving ratepayers to foot the bill.
Council estimates the SRV would generate an extra $161 million by 2036, money they say will go straight into renewing roads and critical infrastructure.
Community Consultation Begins
To progress the application, Council will spend $80,000 on consultation and financial analysis, including surveys, mailouts, town-hall style meetings, and an independent “ability to pay” study.
The proposal must then be submitted to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) by February 2026, with a decision expected by May 2026.
Not a Done Deal
Other councils across NSW have recently attempted similar hikes. Some, like Northern Beaches and Federation Councils, have been successful. Others, such as North Sydney, were knocked back by IPART for failing to prove cost savings or strong community support.
Hawkesbury Council acknowledges the same risks apply here. If the application fails, it warns services could be cut and roads will continue to deteriorate.
What It Means for Residents
For families, retirees, and small businesses already struggling with cost-of-living pressures, the nearly 40% rise will be difficult to absorb.
Community voices are already asking tough questions:
Has Council done enough to cut costs internally?
- Is the community truly on board with such a steep rise?
- Will residents see a measurable improvement in roads and services?
The coming months of consultation will be crucial. Without strong public support and a clear plan, Hawkesbury’s biggest rate hike could be stopped at the gate.
The Gazette will continue to follow this issue closely and publish details of upcoming community consultation sessions so residents can have their say.
