Cessnock City Council raises approximately 50 per cent of its operating incomes from rates and annual charges. 

Listed below are some frequently asked questions about rates.

Where can I find information about my land valuation?

In New South Wales, the Valuer General is the State Government’s principal advisor on all land valuation matters. Council calculates rates based upon these valuations as supplied by the Valuer General.

For any information regarding your land valuation, visit the Department of Lands website or phone 1800 110 038.

How are rates calculated?

Each property in the City falls into one of six categories for rating purposes, dependant on the actual land use of the property.  These categories are Residential, Residential Rural, Farmland, Farmland Low Intensity, Farmland - Business Rural, Farmland - Mixed Use, Business and Mining.

Council's rating structure for each of these categories consists of two parts, a base amount (a flat charge common to all properties) and an ad valorem component (an amount calculated on the land value of your property).

When are my rates due and payable?

You have the choice of either paying your rates in full, or by quarterly instalments.  If you elect to pay in a lump sum, the full amount is due by 31 August each year.  If you choose to pay by instalments, the due dates are 31 August, 30 November, 28 February and 31 May.  You will be sent a reminder notice one month before each payment is due.

How can I pay my rates?

There are several payment options available including:

• Direct Debit from a nominated account.
• In person at any Australia Post Office or Agency, or Council's Administration Centre (cash, cheque, Eftpos, Credit Cards).
• Telephone and Internet Banking using Post Billpay (www.postbillpay.com.au ) – Mastercard & Visa only
• Telephone and Internet Banking using BPAY – debit accounts only

Please contact Customer Service on 4993 4300 if you require detailed information on any of these payment options.

What should I do if I am having difficulty paying my rates?

You should contact the Rates Department on 4993 4100 as soon as possible, preferably before the account becomes overdue.  Satisfactory arrangements can usually be made to tailor your payments to more manageable amounts.

Are there penalties for late payment of rates?

Yes.  Interest accrues on rates and charges that remain unpaid after they become due and payable.

Am I eligible for a pensioner rebate on my rates?

If you reside on the rateable property and are the holder of a Pensioner Concession card, generally you will be entitled to a rebate on your rates.  If you become a pensioner during the rating year you should contact Council, as rebates can be granted on a quarterly basis.

An application form must be completed in person at Council's Customer Service Centre.  You will need to bring your Pensioner Concession card with you.  If you are unable to attend Council's offices (eg. due to a disability), other arrangements are available.

Can I find out the owner of a property that adjoins mine, and is there a fee payable?

This is now governed by the Privacy, Public Information and the Dividing Fences Acts. Please lodge a Public Information access form (GIPA) with your request and reason.
More information how to do this is on the page Accessing Council Information

A fee may be payable if a third party has to be contacted.

Where can I go to obtain more information about Council rates?

Further information can be obtained from the Customer Service Centre on:
Phone: 4993 4300
Fax: 4993 2500
E-mail: council@cessnock.nsw.gov.au
Mail: Box 152, Cessnock, NSW, 2325
Visit 62-78 Vincent Street, Cessnock, NSW, 2325

Why do I pay rates?

Council has many services which are funded from rates.  For example, the maintenance of roads and parks and gardens; libraries; community services for senior citizens and youth; town planning; food inspections; dog control; tourism; and swimming pools.  Rates are the method by which the community contributes to the funding of these services.

Department of Local Government FAQ 

How can I get a copy of my rates notice?

Copies of Rates notices can be obtained by contacting Customer Service Centre on 4993 4300. A fee may apply.