We understand that sometimes it can be hard to make payments of your rates by the due date. If you are finding it difficult to pay your rates, we have the following options available.
Depending on your circumstances, there are short term and longer-term options that may be able to assist you.
FlexiPay payment plan
Ratepayers have the flexibility to pay their rates hassle-free through direct debit via FlexiPay. FlexiPay allows ratepayers to tailor rate payments to fit their budget. They can choose to pay weekly, fortnightly, monthly, or quarterly over the financial year.
Fines and interest won't be applied during the agreed arrangement period as long as timely payments are made.
Other options
- Extension of Time (short term) Extension of Time (short term)
- Payment Plan Payment Plan
- Postponement of Rates for Seniors Postponement of Rates for Seniors
- Financial Wellbeing Assistance Financial Wellbeing Assistance
If you are experiencing financial difficulty and don’t believe you can meet your upcoming rates payment, you can request an extension of time to pay.
If you need an extension of time to pay your outstanding rates in full, you can choose a payment date within 1 month at the time you submit your application. You must make a full payment on or before this date.
If you believe you need more time than 1 month, we recommend you enter a payment plan.
You will not receive a fine if you lodge an extension of time request prior to the quarterly instalment due date:
- First instalment: 1 September
Second instalment: 1 December
Third instalment: 1 March
Fourth instalment: 1 June
Any applications made after these dates will incur a fine under the Local Government Act 1999.
If a Flexipay direct debt arrangement does not suit your circumstances, you can enter into a payment plan. Flexipay is suited to those who pay their rates in full during that financial year in weekly, fortnightly, monthly or quarterly instalments and finalised by 30 June.
A payment plan is suited to those who have rates arrears which require additional time to catch up.
Please note that fines and interest may apply.
If you wish to apply for a payment plan or extension of time request, refer to the link below. Once your application is received, the Revenue Team will be in contact.
Ratepayers who hold a State Seniors Card (or who are eligible to hold a State Seniors Card and have applied to one) are able to apply to Council to postpone payment of rates on their principal place of residence.
Postponement of Rates for Seniors Application Form
Council will require a copy of your Certificate of Title to process your postponement of rates application. If you do not have a copy of your Certificate of Title, you can order one from the Land Services SA website.
Alexandrina Council is committed to supporting ratepayers who may be finding it difficult to manage their payments due to changing circumstances. If you think you may have trouble making a payment, please contact us as early as possible so we can discuss options.
Our team may be able to assist by:
- Helping you set up regular payment deductions
- Postponing your rates if you are a Seniors Card holder
- Applying for financial wellbeing assistance by speaking with Junction Australia
Junction Australia have an office in Goolwa. For an appointment, please contact (08) 8392 3060, email fins@junctionaustralia.org.au, or visit 31B Cadell Street, Goolwa. Junction Australia provide free and confidential financial wellbeing services. Some services include financial counselling and emergency financial assistance. If you would like assistance accessing these services, Council's Revenue Team can refer you directly to Junction Australia on your behalf. To learn more, please refer to the Junction Australia website.
Benefits of applying for financial wellbeing assistance:
- Having a payment plan that suits your budget
- Extension of time to pay
- Postponement of rates (and Seniors Postponement of rates)
- Long term arrangement
- Ongoing direct debit setup via Flexipay or Centrelink
- Fines & interest exemption whilst meeting the arrangement
- Protection from debt recovery
Please refer to our Hardship Policy for further information.
Assistance for Primary Producers
Rural Business Support (RBS) is an organisation committed to building a profitable, sustainable and resilient rural sector by supporting businesses, farmers, landowners and communities in rural and regional South Australia and the Northern Territory.
RBS provides confidential, independent support to primary producers who may be experiencing financial or business challenges. Assistance may include business planning, financial counselling, wellbeing support, and help navigating available programs and services.
For more information, Free call 1800 836 211 to discuss eligibility and arrange an initial appointment to talk through your situation or visit the Rural Business Support website.