Presidents report at the Pakenham public meeting

   Council Rates are increasing at an alarming rate at an average of 8.3% per annum. across Victoria, Rate revenue across Victoria has risen from $1.4 Billion in 1999-2000 to $2.6 Billion with an expected rate increase for 2006 –20 07 at an average of 8% or approximately $200 million which means in 2006-07 councils will collect $2.8 billion next year.

   We are screaming about the financial burden that we the Ratepayers must bear. Councils have many problems at which we direct our anger, your 7.5% rate increase is over twice the rate of inflation Not one single Council has retained rates at CPI across the State. But let’s not blame councils solely.

   Here in Pakenham you have a prime example - 1200 new homes in 12 months predicted to continue until the population doubles, and the Council cannot keep up with the cost of the infrastructure needs. Land developer contributions are not high enough and Council says they cannot change the current charges without the Minister's approval.

   What you should be doing is asking why our rates so high consider the following and

Let’s look at some facts.

   According to the Hawker Cost-shifting inquiry report, Commonwealth Grants and transfer payments to local Governments via state Government have increased by an average of 4.5% per annum while State Government to Local Governments have only increased by 0.4%per annum over the past 25 years.

   This year the state Government will receive $8.5 Billion in GST from the Commonwealth, expected to rise to approximately $10 Billion next year.

   GST is of course untied meaning it can be spent wherever the States desires. Here lies the problem

Conclusion.

   Please do not interpret my comments here tonight as Labor bashing I have just tried to give the facts as to why we believe rates are becoming unaffordable and this is where the problem lies.

   Remember this, united we stand, you have a voice use it, people power can be a strong tool Get behind and support your local Ratepayer groups.

RATEPAYERS VICTORIA, Inc. A0040924M - PO BOX 1057 Huntingdale, Victoria 3166