Newcastle Commercial Rates
Media reports today have told us that North Sydney Council has approved an 87% increase in rates. The community is said to be outraged.
We checked the website of the Office of Local Government. There, we learned that commercial rates in Newcastle will still be 14% higher than in North Sydney even after their 87% increase.
WHY?
The facts are that average Newcastle commercial rates are $12,292, while the average rates for North Sydney are $5,679.
Is Newcastle LGA commercial property more valuable than that in North Sydney? It seems unlikely.
Or is it that the argument made by this organisation for many years has been factual? That means that commercial property owners (and the commercial tenants in those properties through their rents and outgoings) have been paying far too much for far too long.
Compounding that issue is that many are also paying a Special Benefit Rate as well as a Mall Levy.
We have argued for many years that business in this city has been unfairly disadvantaged in its efforts to be sustainable. We also made that argument through submissions in the recent Council review.
What do we want?
We want a fair hearing, and we want the unfair level of commercial rates addressed so that business in Newcastle has a fair go as they try to stay viable and compete in a difficult market.
Background
Business Newcastle is a business organisation that seeks to represent business, commercial property owners and the community across the LGA in matters that relate to the business environment.
As a priority, we aim to support micro, small and medium-sized businesses who want to have their voice heard.
In particular, we support projects and issues that contribute to city liveability, sustainability and accessibility and enhance opportunities for inclusion of all members of our community in the life of the city.
We invite you to add your voice to ours.
Our aim for 2025 is to grow our membership and present an enthusiastic voice for improvements to our city as a place for business..
If you would like to add your name to our membership, please Contact us