The State Government must intervene on behalf of long suffering ratepayers and act to reduce the
costs of Local Government, a rates continue to spiral out of control and tens of thousands of
Tasmanians face increased household stress.

Tasmanians for Reform spokeswoman Mary Massina said Local Government continues to gouge
already financially distressed ratepayers with significant rate rises of up to six per cent, in an
economy that has a negative growth rate and a cost of living increase of one per cent.

“Local Government seems to think it is exempt from economic reality and can continue to increase
its fees and charges in line with its expenses, giving nothing but lip service to the idea of efficiency or
that of the fact that many in the community are struggling,” Ms Massina said.

“Throughout Tasmania rates are up – Launceston and Burnie are up 3 per cent, Hobart is up by 3.5
per cent, Glenorchy 4 per cent, Brighton 2.5 per cent, Sorell 2.3 per cent while West Tamar is up 3.6
per cent and George Town is up by 3.9 per cent.

“Compare these figures to a Consumer Price Index rate of one per cent in greater Hobart for the
March quarter and you realise these increases are three, four and even six times greater compared
to the cost of living and do not seem to be matched by any corresponding increase in service
delivery.

“We’ve seen councils claim they may have to discontinue recycling services in the face of rising
costs, while other councils are either charging a levy for waste management (Hobart), increasing tip
fee costs (Launceston) or are only collecting rubbish once a fortnight (Glenorchy).

“Tasmanians for Reform commissioned a report that shows some 35 per cent efficiency could be
gained through Local Government mergers, which translates to a saving of some $200 million each
year but this was ridiculed by Local Government.

“Local Government then commissioned their own report in the south, which showed a saving of 15
per cent in service delivery alone, but this report has been conveniently shelved.

“It is time for the State Government to act and refer the issue of council mergers to the independent
Local Government Board to help lift the constant financial pain that is being put on the community.
Tasmanians deserve better services, improved infrastructure and cheaper rates,” Ms Massina said.
Tasmanians for Reform spokeswoman Mary Massina