Rates relief expanded after February floods

More ratepayers, owner-operated small businesses and community groups whose properties were significantly damaged by February’s devastating weather will be eligible for Council support.

Moreton Bay Regional Council chief executive officer Greg Chemello announced the updated relief package at this morning’s meeting, with councillors voting unanimously to accept it.

Mr Chemello told the meeting the original package, which gave ratepayers a one-off $250 rates rebate, only covered flood damage.

He said the update would now allow people whose properties were affected by storm damage such as inundation and rainfall to claim the rebate.

Mr Chemello said the revised package would also extend beyond “habitable rooms” as defined under the Building Code of Australia.

“It excluded (rooms such as) laundries and kids’ play areas and we want to expand that to allow for that to happen,” he said.

Significant damage

To be eligible for the rebate, properties will have to have sustained significant damage.

Significant damage is considered to be significant loss and/or damage to furniture, bedding and other household items in the dwelling; and/or substantial structural damage to the dwelling; and/or significant damage to floors, walls, cabinetry and electrical requiring substantial repairs or replacement.

For small businesses the dwelling is considered to be the premises at which the business operates; and significant damage includes damage/loss to stock, fit-out or equipment.

The rebate cannot be claimed for properties where the only damage was to yards, fences or gardens; external buildings such as garages and garden sheds and their contents; pergola/verandah areas and their contents; driveways; swimming pools; and caravans, boats and vehicles.

Ratepayers must apply for their rebate before May 31.

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