Councillor Column - Councillor Donna Marbelli

Hi Readers, I’d like to highlight some of the support available through Council to help residents manage their rates bill in my column today.

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With the ongoing cost-of-living pressures on yourself, families and businesses that we are facing in 2026, it’s important to know that help is available.

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Council’s Hardship Policy may provide assistance to eligible residents and business owners who are experiencing genuine financial difficulty.

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Council is committed to:

• Treating applicants with dignity, respect, sensitivity and confidentiality.  

• Helping in a fair, consistent and transparent manner.  

• Working with residents to find realistic and sustainable payment arrangements.  

• Supporting those who have a genuine inability to meet their rate payment obligations.  

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Residents who believe they may qualify for hardship assistance can apply through Council and will need to provide supporting documentation as part of the assessment process.

I would also like to draw your attention to another option that many residents may find helpful. Just as you can make regular payments towards other household bills, Council offers a direct debit payment facility that allows rates to be paid weekly, fortnightly or monthly. This can make budgeting much easier and removes the pressure of finding the full amount when rates fall due in March and September.

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If paying your rates is becoming a challenge, I encourage you to contact Council and discuss the options available. Whether it is a payment arrangement or hardship assistance, there may be a solution that suits you, your family or your business budget.

Remember, asking for help early can make a significant difference, and Council staff are there to assist you. Please give them a call on (07) 4776 4600 or visit them at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham.

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