Hobart Ratepayers Association
Promoting Citizen Participation
Media Release
Scrap AAV and save on rates
Leo Foley, a candidate for Hobart City Council election, has called on the government to give effect to the main recommendations of the Access Economics report into the “Valuation and Local Government Rating Review”, released earlier this year.
The Report clearly established Land Value Rating as more efficient than AAV, beating it on all 8 criteria. Why do we continue to levy rates on the worst, most inequitable method?” asks Foley.
“Local Government relies on rates for its revenue. The method of raising rates should be at the top of the agenda for all candidates for all Councils”, said Foley. “AAV should be scrapped immediately, yet there is no discussion at all in the community”.
The State Government commissioned the Report, but has gone quiet on the main recommendations. It has introduced new rating tools for councils to apply, but these will make the current system worse. “They have legislated for Fixed Charges, but that is unfair to low-valued properties, and will work like a poll tax to disadvantage poorer people. Only Land Value Rating is fair and equitable; the rest is just window-dressing”, Foley said.
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For further information contact: Leo Foley ph 0427 286486
