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Hawkesbury residents are facing one of the largest proposed council rate increases in the State, with a 40% Special Rate Variation (SRV) now under review by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).
If approved, the increase would significantly raise rates across the Hawkesbury from July 2026.
However, the decision has not yet been made, and residents still have an opportunity to influence the outcome.
Submissions to IPART close on 9 March 2026.
The Final Decision Is Not Council’s
While Hawkesbury City Council has applied for the increase, the decision rests with the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART), the NSW regulator responsible for determining whether councils can increase rates above the state rate cap.
IPART assesses each application against strict criteria before deciding whether the proposed increase is justified.
What IPART Looks At
The tribunal focuses on several key questions when evaluating a rate rise request.
First, it assesses whether the council has demonstrated a clear financial need for the increase. This involves reviewing long-term financial projections, asset management plans and whether the council’s finances are sustainable without additional revenue.
Second, IPART examines whether the council has seriously considered alternatives to raising rates, such as efficiency improvements, service changes or other financial measures.
Third, the tribunal looks closely at community consultation. Councils must demonstrate that residents were properly informed about the proposal and given meaningful opportunities to provide feedback before the application was lodged.
Finally, IPART considers the impact on the community, including the affordability of the proposed increase for households and businesses.
Why Submissions Matter
Community submissions are an important part of IPART’s assessment process.
Residents, businesses and community organisations can lodge submissions outlining their views on the proposal. These submissions become part of the evidence the tribunal considers before making its decision.
Submissions do not need to be lengthy. Residents can raise issues such as:
- The financial impact of the proposed increase
- Whether the council adequately consulted the community
- Concerns about the justification for the rise
- Alternative approaches the council could take
How to Lodge a Submission
Residents wishing to provide feedback can lodge a submission directly with IPART through the consultation page:
Submissions can be completed online in just a few minutes.
Deadline: 9 March 2026
All submissions must be received by 9 March 2026.
After reviewing the council’s application and community feedback, IPART is expected to announce its final decisions in June 2026.
For Hawkesbury residents, the next few days provide the last chance to ensure their views are formally considered before the regulator determines whether the 40% rate rise proceeds.
