Stronger, larger councils will meet the challenges of the future
A dramatic cull in the number of Sydney councils will deliver local government that is more focused on the big issues facing our global city, according to the Property Council of Australia.
The property industry is the State’s biggest – generating over 300,000 jobs and 10 percent of economic growth.
There is concern however at the prospect of changing the basis for calculating rates.
“Sydney desperately needs councils that are focused on the big picture and set aside parochial interests, so reform is essential,” NSW Deputy Executive Director Felicity Wilson said.
“Councils that can think, plan and act strategically are a plus for our global city and help deliver the services and infrastructure communities need.
“We have an enormous challenge to deliver the investment, jobs and housing required by a growing city and local government must play its part.
“The property industry pays over $5 billion in rates and charges to local government and submits over 70,000 development applications a year, which we want to see treated efficiently.
“Councils have had every chance to reform themselves given the process has run for four years, so squealing now only shows they’ve taken their eye off the main game.
“There is a generous package on the table, they’ve had four years to consider options and were given the chance to sort it out for themselves.
“There should be real caution however about the proposal to switch the basis for calculating rates for apartments from unimproved land values to property-based values.
“Unimproved land underpins the State’s valuation and taxing system for good reason.
“A move to property-based rates would tax investment, discourage efficient land use, and work against delivery of the density our city needs.
“We now urge all levels of government to work to deliver a smooth transition and build a contemporary system for councils that can facilitate good outcomes.”
Media contact: Felicity Wilson | M 0410 2 980 | E [email protected]