City of Perth Rates Freeze Policy Holds Local Government Charges Steady for Households

The City of Perth council voted on 7 July to freeze residential rates at 2025-26 levels for the coming financial year, a decision that applies directly to the 12,800 rateable properties inside the local government area. The policy change takes effect from 1 July 2026 and means no increase in the annual rates bill calculated on property valuations.

Why the decision comes now

Local government rates form part of the fixed costs that Perth households manage alongside state water charges and federal energy rebates. The council's 2026-27 budget papers record that rates revenue will remain at $48.3 million, matching the figure collected in the previous year, after iron ore royalty flows to the state government eased some pressure on municipal finances.

Residents in the City of Perth will receive their rate notices in August showing the same base amount as last year. A household in Highgate with a property valued at $850,000 will pay the same $1,920 rates charge it paid in 2025-26, rather than an increase that would have followed the five-year average annual rise of 3.8 percent.

Next steps for ratepayers

The freeze covers the 2026-27 year only. Council staff will review valuations again in early 2027 before preparing the following budget. Ratepayers who pay by direct debit will see the same monthly instalments continue without adjustment until June 2027.

Payment options remain unchanged, with the four-instalment schedule still available and the early-payment discount of 5 percent retained for those settling in full by 30 September. The council has advised that hardship applications will continue to be assessed on a case-by-case basis through its customer service centre.