Pensioners and Seniors Frequently Asked Questions

If you have a valid Concession Card you could qualify for a rebate or a deferment on paying your rates. To qualify, ratepayers must meet the following criteria:

  • You must be the owner and occupier (live on the property) of the property at 1 July of the rating year: and
  • You must hold a valid Pensioner Concession Card, State Concession card, WA Seniors Card, or both a WA Seniors Card and Commonwealth Health Card.

Ratepayers meeting the above criteria must pay their portion of the general rates including Emergency Services Levy, all arrears and service charges by the due date shown on your rates notice.

How do I apply for a pensioner rebate?

  • Contact the Water Corporation on 1300 659 951 to complete a telephone application. The water Corporation will then forward a copy of your completed application to the Council.

OR

  • Complete an application online and the Water Corporation will then forward a copy of your completed application to Council.

The concession will apply from the date your application is received by the Water Corporation.

What happens if I receive a Seniors Card or a Pensioner Concession Card during the financial year?

Partial Concessions are available to pensioners and seniors who become eligible during the financial year. The partial concession will apply from the date your application is received by the Water Corporation.

Do I get Pensioner/Senior rebate on the Emergency Services Levy?

Seniors and pensioners who qualify for a rebate for their general rates will receive the same percentage rebate on the Emergency Service Levy. Pensioners who are eligible to defer their general rates may also defer their Emergency Service Levy.

Is there a maximum rebate amount for pensioners/seniors?

Rebate caps are set by the State Government. Please contact the Water Corporation on 13 13 85 for current details.

What are my payment options?

1)     Claim your rebate

  • There is no pensioner rebate on the refuse charge and this must be paid by the due date shown on your rates notice.
  • You will need to pay your portion of the general rates, Emergency Services Levy, all arrears and service charges in full by the due date shown on your rates notice, in order to receive your rebate which the Council will claim from the State Government on your behalf.

OR

2)     Defer the general rates and Emergency Services Levy on your property.

  • The Refuse Charge must be paid on or before by the due date shown on your rates notice and cannot be deferred.
  • If you are eligible and choose to defer your rates, the full rates amount and Emergency Services Levy will be deferred and remain as a charge on your property until it is sold, or you move from the property. No interest will apply to the deferred amount.

Who determines the rulings for pensioners and seniors?

The Office of State Revenue determines all rules in relation to the rebates and deferments for pensioners and seniors. The Council administers the rules regarding pensioners/seniors rebates and deferment of rates.

For further information please contact the Shire office on 08 9823 1506 or email rates@woodanilling.wa.gov.au