EMBARGO TUESDAY SEPT. 2
Uralla Shire Council is considering an application for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) to maintain essential services and ensure the Council remains financially sustainable and independent into the future.
The Long-Term Financial Plan (LTFP) adopted by Council at their April meeting this year has identified that Council’s current financial position is not sustainable.
If approved, the proposal would involve two one-off special increases to the general rate only of 28.5 per cent in the first year (2026–27) and 23 per cent in the second year (2027–28). After that, no additional increases are proposed beyond the standard annual adjustments set by the NSW Government.
For several years Uralla Shire Council has been fortunate enough to secure grant funding to delay an application for an SRV. Council is investigating all opportunities to reduce the burden on residents including seeking additional grant funding and a comprehensive review of the current rating structure.
Mayor Robert Bell said that the SRV is about maintaining existing services, protecting the Shire’s financial sustainability, and preserving Uralla Shire’s independence as a local government.
“Like many households, Council is feeling the impacts of inflation and rising costs. Fuel, materials, insurance, utilities, and compliance costs have all gone up more than the annual rate cap. We want to be upfront with our community about what that means for us as a Shire and work together to find solutions,” the Mayor said.
“This is not about expanding Council services or building new infrastructure, it’s about preserving what we already have and ensuring Uralla Shire remains financially sustainable and proudly independent.”
Uralla Shire is not alone in considering a Special Rate Variation. Councils across the region including Glen Innes, Armidale, Walcha, and Tamworth have recently applied for or received approval for similar variations. Across the state, all Councils are facing ongoing financial pressures, with imposed rate capping and rising costs making it increasingly difficult to maintain essential services for their communities.
“Uralla residents have always taken pride in our self-reliance and community spirit,” the Mayor said. “This is an opportunity for the community to have their say early and help shape how we meet today’s challenges while building a strong future.”
To support the decision process, Council has launched a webpage to help residents understand and provide feedback on a proposed SRV, including an early insights survey which gives residents the chance to learn more about the process, let council know what services mean the most to them and to share initial thoughts about the proposal.
A formal consultation period will take place in October 2025, when the community will have another opportunity to provide input helping Council with their decision process.
To learn more, keep up to date with in-person events and take the survey, visit: yoursay.uralla.nsw.gov.au/srv.
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