Where does Council get its money?
What does Council spend its money on?

Where does Council get its money?

Randwick City Council's annual budget is approximately 124 million dollars (2008/2009). Council raises money from:

• rates
• fees and charges
• grants
• income from investments

Council has high standards of accountability.

Rates

Nearly 40% of Council's income comes from taxes on land - these taxes are called rates. Each year the owners of houses or other property must pay rates to Council. The amount that is paid depends on the value of the land.

Fees and Charges

Council charges a separate levy for waste services. Other examples of fees and charges that apply include:

• charges for hiring halls, parks or other Council controlled facilities
• fees for having development applications assessed
• payments for dog registration.

Grants

Council receives a financial grant every year which is paid by the Commonwealth Government through the State Government. This grant is given without conditions, that is, it is up to council how it is spent.

Council also receives grants from other sources for specific purposes. These grants often require dollar for dollar funding to be provided by Council. Some examples of these grants include:

• grants from the Roads and Traffic Authority for specific traffic works
• grants from the Department of Sport and Recreation for specific recreational works.

Investments

Council also receives income from investments.

What does Council spend its money on?

Grants, fees and charges are normally allocated to specific purposes. Rates, and money from other sources, are used to provide facilities for residents and visitors, maintaining and improving our beaches, parks, roads, footpaths and so on.