2019 and 2020 Local Land Services rates – drought support package

The NSW Government's Drought Support Package helps landholders through covering Local Land Services rates for 2019 and 2020.

Around 130,000 rates notices were sent to NSW ratepayers in January 2020, however, as part of the NSW Government’s drought relief package, they are not payable for the period.

This includes the general rates and rates for animal health and pests, the meat industry levy and costs for routine stock moving permit and stock identification.

You do not need to apply for this exemption as it will be automatically applied to landholders.

The NSW Government will compensate Local Land Services for the lost rates revenue, meaning our staff can continue to support you during these challenging times.

You will still receive a rates notice

You will have received a rates notice, however as part of the NSW Government’s drought relief package, Local Land Services rates will not be payable for the period.

Rates notices will show the usual components, but amounts shown will not be payable. The NSW Government drought relief package will provide funding to our staff on the ground to continue to deliver the services normally funded from rates.

Read the Frequently Asked Questions for more information or contact your Local Land Services office.

About Local Land Services rates

At Local Land Services, the rates you pay are allocated to the biosecurity of our environment and agriculture. We use your rates to protect against pests, weeds and diseases and aim to maintain vital market access for producers.

The rates you pay fund our biosecurity, animal health and emergency work. It helps us to:

• coordinate and support pest control for a healthier and more productive landscape
• support our animal health programs
• support agriculture and animals during emergencies
• support stock identification systems.

Paying previous years' rates

If you have rates or interest to pay from previous years, you can make a payment through the following ways:

• Online payment
• BPay – telephone and internet banking.
• By phone – call 1300 738 070 to pay by MasterCard or Visa.

You can also post a cheque or money order with the remittance slip on your rates notice.

Want to know more?

For more information about Local Land Services rates, read about special purpose rates or rates frequently asked questions.