Minister for Local Government, Natalie Hutchins, has today welcomed the release of the Essential Services Commission’s (ESC) discussion paper on the fair go rates cap.

The discussion paper sets out the key issues and priorities for the ESC’s work and flags the beginning of extensive community consultation.

The paper represents the next step towards the Andrews Labor Government’s commitment to cap rates to inflation from 2016-17. Under the Labor Government’s plan, councils wanting to exceed the cap will be required to justify their spending.

As part of its inquiry, the ESC will consult widely with councils and local residents, as well as stakeholders including the Municipal Association of Victoria, Victorian Local Governance Association and LGPro.

The Labor Government is encouraging councils and communities alike to be a part of the consultation.

Following this first round of consultation, the ESC will publish a draft report on the recommendations, with councils, peak bodies and other stakeholders invited to provide further comment.

A final report will be provided to the Minister for Local Government and Minister for Finance by 31 October 2015.

More details can be found at www.esc.vic.gov.au/Statutory-Insurance/Local-Government-Rates-Capping-Framework-Review.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government, Natalie Hutchins

“We’ve asked the Essential Services Commission to help us develop the best framework for our fair go rates cap.”

“The Commission will consult across the local government sector, so that our rate capping policy strikes the right balance.”

“This is about making local rates fairer, and we encourage communities and councils to be part of the consultation.”