đź“Ś Budget & rates explained
How inflation, service costs and long‑term planning shape how Council delivers its commitments to the community.
This page explains how Council develops its annual Budget, why rates may change from year to year, and how broader economic conditions — including inflation — affect costs and decision‑making.
Council’s Budget is made up of two core parts — one that funds day‑to‑day services, and one that funds longer‑term infrastructure and major works.
Funds the day‑to‑day running of Council and the services the community relies on.
Funds major projects and infrastructure that support the city now and into the future.
Council’s approach to the Budget is shaped by the current financial environment and feedback from the Redlands Coast community.
Priorities include:
Quick answers to common questions about rates, charges and how the Budget works.
Rates are levied on residential and commercial properties to fund essential local services, including:
Rates notices may also include water usage charges and charges collected on behalf of the Queensland Government, such as the Emergency Management Levy.
Rates, charges and utilities are Council’s primary source of income, supplemented by government grants, developer contributions and borrowings.
Council considers affordability alongside service delivery and long‑term financial sustainability in each Budget.
Why rates can increase
When the cost of delivering services rises — due to inflation or higher material and labour costs — Council may need to adjust rates to maintain service levels.
Council absorbs as much of this impact as possible, but some increase is necessary to meet its responsibilities as a local government.
Each year, Council aims to balance affordability for residents with the need to fund services and infrastructure the community relies on.
Why rates differ between properties
Council uses a differential rating system, which means rates can vary depending on:
The rate‑in‑the‑dollar (RID) for each category is set annually in Council’s revenue statement. When land valuations increase, the RID is adjusted to ensure Council only raises the revenue required to deliver services.
This system is used across south‑east Queensland to ensure costs are shared equitably.
Why do I pay for services I don’t personally use?
Rates fund services and infrastructure across the entire city, not individual households or suburbs. This shared approach ensures all residents benefit from a well‑functioning city.
Why does most rates revenue come from residential properties?
Around 80% of properties on Redlands Coast are residential, with a smaller commercial and industrial base compared to other councils. This means a greater share of rates revenue comes from residential properties. This reflects the city’s character and lifestyle, with fewer large industrial areas than other parts of south‑east Queensland.