In a surprising move that has left residents reeling, the North Burnett Regional Council in Queensland has announced a staggering 25 per cent increase in rates for the upcoming financial year. This decision, detailed in the council’s $69-million budget for 2025-26, has sparked widespread concern and disbelief among ratepayers. The steep rise surpasses recent increases seen in other regions, making it one of the largest hikes recorded.
Mayor Les Hotz defended the unprecedented rate hike by citing spiraling costs and stagnant growth as primary reasons for the council’s financial strain. He emphasized that this increase was crucial to cover essential services and utilities without relying on additional government assistance. Mayor Hotz expressed sympathy for residents facing financial difficulties due to the hike, acknowledging that it would be a significant burden on many households.
“We’re just trying to meet the costs without having to reach out and ask our state and federal government to assist,”
Mayor Hotz explained.
The impact of this decision is already being felt by residents like pensioner Colin Boot, who expressed concerns about managing his expenses with such a substantial rate increase. Reflecting on possible cutbacks, he shared,
“I just can’t see where we’re going to get that extra money … the only thing I can see is [cancelling] insurance.”
The sentiment echoed by Boot highlights the real struggles faced by individuals grappling with increased living costs.
Former councillor Dael Giddens raised another pressing issue stemming from the rate rise—the potential reduction in children’s extracurricular activities due to tightened budgets. She noted how families might have to prioritize and limit after-school engagements like sports or hobbies. Giddens lamented,
“They may only get to choose one, so unfortunately that will have an effect on our children.”
As discussions around affordability and sustainability gain momentum within the community, Chief Executive Craig Matheson shed light on some critical factors influencing this decision. With costs rising steadily over recent years but minimal growth in ratepayer numbers, maintaining existing services posed a significant challenge for the council.
First-term councillor Trina Vaughn’s opposition stemmed from her concerns about exacerbating financial pressures on already struggling households. Vaughn highlighted conversations with individuals forced to make sacrifices like skipping essential medications due to financial constraints—a sobering reminder of the very real consequences of such increases.
Deputy Mayor Melinda Jones acknowledged the tough choices ahead but stressed the necessity of addressing these challenges now rather than passing them onto future generations. Drawing parallels with past crises like fires and floods, she emphasized that proactive measures were imperative to prevent further financial strain down the line.
The Long-term outlook painted by experts indicates that failing to address current fiscal issues promptly could lead to even more significant problems in years ahead. The forecast suggests dwindling cash reserves until remedial action is taken—underscoring both immediate challenges and future risks associated with delayed interventions.
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