Half yearly rates issued 22 January can be paid quickly and conveniently on line, or in a number of alternative methods, by close of business Monday 22 February.  CEO Lyn Russell said Council’s website now offered an opportunity to pay by internet, an additional alternative to the existing payment process for ratepayers.

“On the back of each rate notice there is a list of payment methods including credit card by telephone and internet, Bpay, and of course over the counter payments are available at Council Customer Service Centres and post offices,” Ms Russell said.

“Visiting Council’s website to pay rates also offers customers the opportunity to keep up to the minute with activities and services on offer,” she said.
Council provides direct debit plans through which rates can be paid from bank accounts by way of weekly, fortnightly or monthly payments.

“Ratepayers can make use of the direct debit system to conveniently pay off half yearly rates through regular, affordable instalments, before the rate notice is even issued,” Ms Russell added. “If anyone across the region is struggling to pay rates by the due date, Council officers will help work out payments that suit individuals. Ratepayers need only make a call for this service.” “Should anyone not have received a rate notice by Friday 29 January, I encourage them to contact Council.”

Rates have remained the same as it is the second issue for the 2009/2010 financial year and Cairns Regional Council will collect more than $102 million in the current rate period 1 January to 30 June 2010. Overdue rates attract interest charged at 11% per annum, compounded daily.

For further information contact Council’s Customer Service Centre 40443044 or Mossman Administration Centre 4099 9444