Discounted rates and incentives for landowners
Council offers differential (discounted) rates to assist landowners manage the natural environment on their properties.
Sustainable Agricultural Land Rate
The Sustainable Agriculture Land Rate aims to:
- encourage sustainable agricultural land management practices
- promote ecological management of rural land
- encourage the retention of larger rural land holdings
- protect and enhance the rural landscape character and the natural environment.
The Sustainable Agricultural Land Rate is calculated at 65% of the General rate.
To be eligible, you must own a property or aggregate of jointly managed properties with a minimum size of 30 hectares where that land is classified as Farm Land in Section 2 (1) of the Valuations of Land Act 1960.
The land must be receiving the Farm Rate and prepare a property management plan (or equivalent approved document) that specifies a range of activities that will promote sustainable and ecologically sound land and water management to the satisfaction of Council.
Council will contact existing recipients to update plans approximately every four years.
For more information email our Land Management Officer at environment@nillumbik.vic.gov.au
Trust for Nature Land Rate
A discounted rate is provided to landowners who have placed a Trust for Nature Conservation Covenant on their property.
The rate discount is calculated at 85% of the General rate to acknowledge the long-term commitment of these landowners to conserving biodiversity on their land.
For more information email our Land Management Officer at environment@nillumbik.vic.gov.au.
Rates for Farm Land
Land used for farms may be eligible for a lower rate on their rates notice. The Farm Rate aims to support to farmers in the Shire, particularly in recognition of drought impacts and climate change.
The relief provided is currently set at 85% of the General rate and is decided by Council during the budgeting and rating process.
Find out more and learn how you can apply for the Farm Rate.