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Expanded Drought Assistance For Farm FamiliesBass Coast Shire Council is encouraging farmers who are experiencing exceptional circumstances to apply for a rate subsidy. By Bass Coast Shire Council - 8th May 2007 - Back to News Farmers in Exceptional Circumstances declared areas who qualify for Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payments or Emergency Payments from Centrelink are also be eligible for the Victorian Government’s municipal rate subsidy.
"The municipal rate subsidy scheme is one of a number of initiatives provided by the State Government, once farmers have become EC-declared by Centrelink," says Council’s Rates and Property Officer, Christine Burgan.
"The subsidy is pro rata for this financial year (the 2006/2007 rating year), according to the date on which the ratepayer begins to receive Centrelink payments, and the subsidy will be 50% in subsequent years.
"Application forms are available from our Customer Service Centres in Wonthaggi, Cowes, Inverloch and Grantville," continued Ms Burgan.
"Provision of a Centrelink Income Statement or Centrelink Interim Payment Letter, together with the municipal rate notice, will be needed. Additional documentation in relation to eligibility may also be requested in some circumstances."
The Australian Government announced on 23 March 2007 that South and West Gippsland were experiencing Exceptional Circumstances and that farmers would be able to apply for drought assistance through Centrelink. This area includes the Bass Coast Shire.
If you have any queries regarding the subsidy, please contact Bass Coast Shire Council’s Rates and Property Officer, Christine Burgan on 5671 2211 or 5951 3311.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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