Politics
Craigieburn Freezes Rates for 2026-27, Protecting Household Budgets
Craigieburn residents face unchanged annual rates bills for the 2026-27 fiscal year under the local government budget passed on July 7.
How we reported this
The Craigieburn City Council adopted a 2026-27 budget on July 7 that freezes residential rates at their current levels for all single-family homes and multi-unit dwellings. The measure directly affects the 48,000 rateable properties within city limits by preventing any increase in the base levy amount billed to households each July.
Reasons for the timing of the rates decision
Local government officials cited sustained pressure on household expenses from utility charges and grocery costs as the primary factor behind the freeze. The decision follows three consecutive years of rate increases averaging 3.8 percent annually, according to figures in the council's budget papers released last month. Policy analysts note that the freeze aligns with the council's statutory requirement to balance its operating budget without drawing from reserve funds beyond the 5 percent cap set in the Local Government Act.
Residents in the northern suburbs, where median household income sits at $72,400, will see the largest proportional effect because rates represent 2.1 percent of annual income there. A typical three-bedroom home assessed at $485,000 will continue to pay $2,340 in rates, unchanged from the prior year. The policy also maintains the existing pensioner rebate at $180 per qualifying household.
Allocation of remaining budget resources
The budget papers allocate an additional $1.2 million to expand the existing emergency assistance program for overdue utility accounts. Eligible households can apply for grants of up to $400 once per year through the council's community services office. Local advocates note that applications for similar assistance rose 14 percent in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the same period last year.
Implementation begins on August 1 when rate notices are mailed. The council will hold two public information sessions on July 15 and July 22 at the Craigieburn Civic Centre to explain payment options and rebate eligibility. Residents who have already paid their rates in full for the coming year will receive a credit applied to their 2027-28 bill.