The Essential Services Commission has approved Council’s one-year 2.25 per cent rate cap variation application for 2026–27.
About 2026–27 rates
This means the overall rate increase for 2026–27 will be five per cent, including the Victorian Government’s standard 2.75 per cent rate cap.
Even with this approved rate increase, Glen Eira remains one of Melbourne’s lowest rating inner metropolitan councils.
The approved increase will support Council to maintain essential services and infrastructure while responding to rising costs and increasing demand for services.
The additional 2.25 per cent applies for one year only in 2026–27, with future rate increases returning to the standard rate cap set by the Victorian Government.
FAQs
Why did Council apply for a rate cap variation?
Like many councils, Glen Eira is experiencing rising costs, increasing demand for services and growing financial pressure.
We’ve already taken steps to manage these pressures, including identifying efficiencies, reviewing services, reprioritising capital projects and delivering operational savings. However, these measures alone are not enough to fully address ongoing financial pressures.
The approved increase also supports the goals of Council’s Financial Sustainability Strategy, adopted in December 2025, including balancing future budgets, strengthening reserves, managing debt responsibly and continuing to invest in essential services and infrastructure the community values most.
How much extra will I pay?
For an average-value property, the overall five per cent rate increase represents around $84 for the year (around $7 per month).
The exact amount for each property will vary depending on property values and other charges.
Why might my rates increase by more (or less) than this?
The $84 figure is based on an average-value property.
Individual rates may increase by more (or less) depending on changes in property valuations and other charges such as waste charges or the Victorian Government’s Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund Levy.
What will the additional revenue be used for?
The approved variation is expected to generate around $3 million in additional rates revenue each year.
The additional revenue will help support Council’s long-term financial sustainability and help maintain essential services, renew and maintain community infrastructure, respond to rising costs and growing demand, and deliver priority projects and community facilities.
What does this mean for the 2026–27 Budget?
The draft 2026–27 Budget was prepared before the Essential Services Commission made its decision and did not include the additional increase.
The approved increase will now be incorporated into the final Budget to be considered by Council by 30 June 2026.
Financial hardship support
If you are experiencing difficulty paying your rates, we encourage you to contact us early so we can discuss support options.
This may include flexible payment arrangements and assistance available through our Rates Financial Hardship Policy.
