Tell us what you think about proposed rate changes
Published on 11 December 2025
Rates help pay for the services and facilities our community uses every day – including things like roads, parks, waste services, libraries and community centres.
We’re reviewing the way we calculate rates to make sure the system stays up to date and reflects how properties are used across the Shire.
We have a few possible changes and want to know what they could mean for you.
The draft Rating Strategy outlines changes around:
Different types of rates
Because properties are used in different ways, we separate them into categories – like homes, farms and businesses. Each category has its own rate. We’re asking for feedback on the options for how these categories are set.
Retirement village rebate
A discounted differential rate for our ageing population living in retirement villages at 80% of the general rate. This would add around $4 to the average household’s rates.
Waste service charges
A new way of separating waste costs into household bin services and public waste services.
For households with bins, this would mean an example increase of around $41 a year – which is about $1 a week. Properties without a bin service (like vacant land) would pay a lower amount – around $130 a year.
These amounts are based on this year only and will be updated annually.
Farmland classification
A rolling 4 – 5 year review program for all properties currently classified as farmland. Around 240 properties will be reassessed each year to confirm eligibility for the farmland differential rate.
This process helps ensure consistency and makes sure hobby farms and land banking are not receiving the discounted rate.
Rates payment options
We’re seeking feedback on a possible change to how the “pay in full” option works.
The February “pay in full” option would be removed. If you'd prefer to make just one payment, you can pay all four instalments together at the end of September instead. Instalment payments stay exactly the same.
If this change goes ahead, it would start from 2027–28.
The draft Rating Strategy is available now, and we’re encouraging all ratepayers to take a moment to review the options and share their views.
How to provide your thoughts
Community consultation is currently open and closes 15 February 2026.
Online
Go to mornpen.vic.gov.au/ratingstrategy and take the survey online
In writing
Hard copy feedback forms are available on request at any of our Customer Service Centres at Hastings, Mornington and Rosebud.
You can submit them via email at budget@mornpen.vic.gov.au or via post:
Rating Strategy
Mornington Peninsula Shire
Private Bag 1000, Rosebud, Victoria, 3939
Quotes attributable to Mayor Councillor Anthony Marsh:
“We’re reviewing the way differential rates and waste service charges are applied to make sure the system remains fair and reflects the different ways land is used across the Peninsula. We want to check in with our community before anything is finalised, and we encourage everyone to look at the options and let us know what matters to them. Your feedback will help guide Council’s decision-making.”