Rate calculations
Calculation overview
Council rates are calculated by multiplying the capital value of the property by the rate in the dollar. Capital values are obtained each year from the Valuer-General.
Minimum rate for 2024/25
The rate in the dollar is determined by Council. The formula is adjusted by applying a minimum rate set by Council each year. The minimum rate for 2024/25 is set at $1,129 and will apply to all residential properties with a capital value of $590,000 or less, and to all non-residential properties with a capital value of $216,953 or less. The minimum rate can only be applied to maximum of 35 per cent of properties in the area. This ensures that all property owners contribute to the cost of services and infrastructure maintenance to each property.
Rate in the dollar
We use a formula based on property values to determine the amount of rates you pay. It ensures that costs are shared.
The amount needed to be raised from rates is divided by the total value of all properties in our area.
Rate in the dollar formula
Total rate revenue required / Total value of rateable properties = rate in the dollar
Using a rate in the dollar avoids a windfall gain from changes in property values.
Rates in the dollar for 2024/25
| Residential |
0.00191347 |
| Non residential |
0.00516635 |
| RL Levy |
0.00007106 |
How are the rates levied calculated?
The amount of rates levied on each property is calculated using this formula:
Capital value of property multiplied (x) by the rate in the dollar = rates levied (subject to minimum rate).
Example one: residential
Capital Value = $750,000
Rate in the dollar = 0.00191347 (Rates = capital value x rate in the dollar)
Minimum rate = $1,129
Result:
Rates = $750,000 x 0.00191347 = $1,435.10
As this amount (result) is greater than the minimum rate, the rate applied by the City of West Torrens remains at $1,435.10.
Example two: residential with an adjustment for the minimum rate
Capital Value = $500,000
Rate in the dollar = 0.00191347 (Rates = capital value x rate in the dollar)
Result:
Rates = $500,000 x 0.00191347 = $956.70
This amount (result) is below the minimum rate (of $989.00) and must therefore be adjusted:
Rates = $956.70 + adjustment = $956.70 + $172,30 = $1,129.00.
The rates are adjusted up by $172.30 and set by the City of West Torrens at the minimum rate of $1,129.00.
More information
Email the Service Centre or contact 8416 6333.