Rate capping

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The average general rate and municipal charge can only increase each year up to a certain percentage cap. Find out how this works in Darebin.

Rate capping was introduced by the State Government from the 2016/2017 financial year.

Under this system, Victorian councils cannot increase their rates revenue above a certain percentage, set by the Minister for Local Government each year.

Councils may only exceed the cap if they are granted an exemption by the Essential Services Commission.

How rates are calculated

Your rates bill may not much the rate cap. The rate cap applies to the overall rate revenue collected by each council, not your individual property.

Your bill includes two elements:

  • General Rates charge, and
  • Fire services levy

The rate cap does not apply to the fire services levy or for property revaluations.

Watch How does rate capping work? for more information.

Previous year rate caps

Financial year Rate cap
 2024-25 2.75%
 2023-24 3.50%
2022–23 1.75%
2021-22 1.5%
2020–21 2.0%
2019–20 2.5%
2018–19 2.25%
2017–18 2.0%
2016–17 2.5%

More information

Customer Service
Phone: 03 8470 8888
Email: revenue@darebin.vic.gov.au