An extensive engagement campaign was carried out for the proposed Special Rate Variation (SRV) from 4 October to 8 November 2022. Over that time, a total of 2,483 submissions were received.

The purpose of the community engagement was to ensure that the rate payers and residents of Hornsby Shire were adequately informed and consulted about the impact of the proposed special rate variation and the impact of not applying for a special rate variation.

The engagement approach, purpose and goals, key messages and the timeline for community consultation was outlined in a Community Engagement Action Plan, developed to meet the SRV assessment criteria set out by the Office of Local Government and Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).

View Morrison and Low's Community Engagement Action Plan.

Following the engagement period, Morrison Low prepared a Community Engagement Outcomes Report which summarised the main issues raised in the submissions:

• The SRV increase is too high and the timing is difficult having regard to cost of living pressures, inflation, interest rates, economic conditions, energy bills, rent rises and mortgages
• Council should increase efficiencies, increase productivity or savings, reduce wastage, reduce overhead costs
• The SRV will have a harder impact on retirees, pensioners, the elderly
• There is an understanding and awareness that Council is facing rising prices
• Development growth in the Shire should be providing enough income for Council
• Council should prioritise essential projects (not wish list) or defer non-essential projects
• Council should tighten its belt – live within its means – or just focus on Council’s essential services
• Council should undertake better financial management
• Council is out of step with the community
• There is dissatisfaction with current levels of maintenance, services, facilities, planning, traffic, overdevelopment, congestion (waste, roads, pathways, parks, trees, stormwater, public amenities, etc)
• The SRV rate increase should not be above the CPI, inflation, wage growth or the IPART rate.

The report acknowledged that the majority of feedback received argued against Council proceeding with a SRV, or at least proceeding with a smaller SRV. Also, that where Council had the opportunity to fully articulate the background and necessity of the SRV, the community’s response was generally more positive.

For the complete report, view Morrison Low's Community Engagement Outcomes Report.

Following feedback regarding issues of pensioner rate rebates and Council’s Hardship Policy, it is proposed that Council’s current pensioner rate rebate to eligible pensioners be increased by $50 to $300 per annum (subject to an approved SRV) and the Hardship Policy be reviewed prior to the adoption of the 2023/24 Delivery Program and Budget.