The Local Land Services says rate increases affecting its 20,163 ratepayers in the North Coast region reflect The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal recommendations.
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An LLS spokesperson said IPART was asked to provide advice and recommendations on a more efficient rating base and rate-collection mechanism moving forward.
The latest rate rise brings the general base rate across the state to a consistent level.
"The general base rate has now been raised to $90 for each region," the spokesperson said.
"Prior to this year's increase, each region had a variable rate ranging downwards of $60.
"This is a yearly payment and we encourage landholders to work with their local LLS to arrange a payment plan if required.
"The variable component of the rates - the cents per unit - has increased by 3%.
"The base rate for animal health, meat industry levy or special purpose pest management rate has remained the same."
The spokesperson said the LLS had 'inherited inefficient and inconsistent rating systems across its 11 regions'.
IPART held extensive roundtable discussions and public seminars in consultation with key stakeholders and the community. They also welcomed online submissions to their draft report, the spokesperson said.
"This rates increase reflects IPART's recommendations," the spokesperson added.
This rates increase reflects IPART's recommendations.
- Local Land Services spokesperson
Rates did not increase during the first two years of Local Land Services. Prior to this, rates had not increased for up to 10 years in parts of NSW.
"Rates are an important source of revenue for LLS," the spokesperson said.
"They finance biosecurity and animal health services which safeguards domestic and international markets. The current increase brings rates income to a level that can sustain services to landholders."
Under the Local Land Services Act 2013 and Local Land Services Regulation 2014, Local Land Services does not have to consult with landholders about rate increases.
It does however, need permission from its Boards to increase rates.
"LLS consulted with NSW Farmers and other key stakeholders face-to-face to inform them of the increase. There was broad support from these stakeholders.
"An extensive internal and external communications plan has been implemented to inform landholders across the state."
The spokesperson said LLS has received 13 complaints about rates; five of which were about the rates increase and seven Ministerials; four of which related to the increase.
Across the North Coast region, the LSS offers a range of services and programs to help landholders improve their productivity and landscape health.
"LLS is regularly running workshops and training to share best practice and connect landholders with regional networks," the spokesperson said.
"LLS staff are technical experts who can offer independent advice on pest control, biosecurity, animal health, agricultural productivity and natural resource management."
For more information go to www.lls.nsw.gov.au/northcoast
